Adult incontinence is now a prevalent health problem in modern society. According to the National Association for Incontinence, over 25% of adult Americans have experienced some form of urinary incontinence. While the problem is higher in women, a large percentage of men especially those over the age of 50 suffer from this debilitating condition. Incontinence is a health problem that not only has social, but economic implications as well. Most men suffering from any form of incontinence withdraw from an active lifestyle. Many of these patients grapple with mental illnesses as well. If you experience an involuntary loss of urine regularly or you have someone under your care who is afflicted with this problem, it is time to learn how to deal with it effectively. This article highlights the importance of managing incontinence and lists some of the best methods to deal with the health issue.
Why You Should Manage Incontinence
Most men who suffer from bladder problems live in denial. This only leads to more devastating consequences. Most men lose their self-esteem and stop living an active life, which can lead to health problems. Some lose professional opportunities because they are afraid of going out and competing due to this health problem. Many relationships also fail due to the man failing to seek treatment or adopting an effective way to deal with incontinence. With time, mental problems manifest themselves, leading to further social problems for the patient.
Tips to Effectively Deal with Incontinence
If you suffer from any form of incontinence or you have someone under your care who suffers from incontinence, there are now ways for him or her to overcome their problems. Some of the best ways to deal with this common health problem include:
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Limit the intake of alcohol and caffeine
Research now shows that alcohol and caffeinated beverages stimulate the production of excess urine. This can cause incontinence, especially if your bladder is weak. If you have any problems with your bladder, avoid alcohol and caffeinated beverages and you will find it easier to manage the problem. Various studies conducted over the years including those published in the Journal of Urology show a link between drinking coffee and urinary incontinence. The study revealed that men who took 234 milligrams of caffeine daily have a 72 % chance of experiencing moderate to severe urinary incontinence.
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Watch Your Weight and Reduce It
Doctors today have cited that being overweight is one of the greatest health risks. Research now shows that maintaining a healthy body mass index (BMI) can help you deal with urinary incontinence more effectively. Being overweight or obese recognized as one of the risk factors associated with adult incontinence. For this reason, you need to work on shedding some pounds actively.
In the same survey, the prevalence of urinary incontinence and stress urinary incontinence in adults was two times higher in respondents who had a high BMI. There are many ways of reducing weight even at an older age. These include taking walks, reducing the intake of calories, adopting a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, increasing the intake of fiber, avoiding sugary snacks, ditching processed foods and others that your doctor will recommend.
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Use Incontinence Products for Men
If incontinence has affected your lifestyle, it is time to take back control of your life by using high-quality incontinence products. Adult diapers for men are discreet and boast of providing high absorbency. Most of them are comfortable to wear. There are different types of adult diapers available in the market. These include disposable and reusable diapers. Although products are available for light, moderate and heavy users, you can choose a product that suits your needs. For immobile men, larger diapers will work perfectly while a light, the most absorbent adult diaper will work for the active man.
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Incontinence Medication for Men
It is important to see a doctor immediately if you notice a problem with your bladder. Remember, this can be a symptom of a bigger underlying problem and your doctor is the only one who can prescribe medication after diagnosing the problem. Some of the major causes of adult incontinence in men include an enlarged prostate, tumors, weakened bladder, and nerve diseases such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and strokes. Your doctor can prescribe medication such as Anticholinergics (that can calm overactive bladder muscles), Alpha-blockers for enlarged prostate, Mirabegron (Myrbetriq) can relax bladder muscles, or injecting Botox can help ease bladder muscles.
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Kegel Or Pelvic Floor Exercises
Most people believe Kegel or pelvic floor exercises are only for women, but your doctor will most likely recommend them to you for your incontinence problem. During these exercises, you should squeeze and hold the muscles you normally use to stop urination. When starting out, do not overdo the contractions lest you damage the pelvic muscles.
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Surgical Solutions for Incontinence in Men
Surgery is always the last option when dealing with incontinence in men. If you have tried all the other options and they have failed, your doctor can recommend one of the many surgical procedures based on your diagnosis.
Some of these surgical procedures include using an Artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) balloon that shut off the urinary sphincter, prolapse surgery to raise your bladder if it has dropped out of its normal position, Sling procedure to close the urethra when you a cough, sneeze, run, or laugh and lastly prostate removal.
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Use of Incontinence Devices
Advances in medical technology have led to the manufacture of innovative devices that are designed to help men deal with the debilitating problem of incontinence. Such devices include catheters, urinary collection systems, and underwear guards. All these devices should only be used after a diagnosis and on the recommendation of your doctor.
The most absorbent adult diaper is the most common method of dealing with incontinence among men but there is no shortage of other effective solution. The first thing you must do is to visit a doctor to get a diagnosis to determine the underlying problem. Your doctor will then recommend a technique to deal with the health problem or a combination of methods to guarantee that you gain control of your life. However bad your incontinence, there are ways to overcome and enjoy a better quality of life. If you have someone under your care, these tips will also help you provide better quality care to them.