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 issue 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 has not only 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 adopt 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 Male 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 them to overcome their problems. Some of the best ways to deal with this common health problem include:
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.
Watch Your Weight and Reduce It
Doctors today have cited being overweight as 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 is 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 fiber intake, avoiding sugary snacks, ditching processed foods, and others that your doctor will recommend.
Use Incontinence Products for Men
If adult incontinencehas affected your lifestyle, it is time to take back control of your life by using high-quality incontinence products. Men’s diapers for incontinenceare discreet and boast of providing high absorbency. Most of these adult diapers for men are comfortable to wear. There are different types of adult pull up 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.
Incontinence Products for Men
When learninghow to deal with male incontinence, managing the condition effectively often involves using specialized products designed to provide comfort, discretion, and control. There is a wide range of incontinence products available for men, including:
Men’s Diapers
Mens diapers, also known as adult diapers, are designed to provide high absorbency and comfort. They come in various styles, including pull-up pants and men’s diapers with tabs, and are available in both disposable and reusable options. These diapers are discreet and can help men maintain an active lifestyle without the fear of leaks.
Booster Pads
Booster pads are an excellent addition to men’s incontinence products, especially for those needing extra protection. These pads can be used in conjunction with any primary incontinence garment, such as men’s diapers or protective underwear, to enhance absorbency. Booster pads are thin yet highly absorbent, making them ideal for extended wear or overnight use. They help prevent leaks by distributing liquid more evenly, reducing the need for frequent changes, and ensuring greater comfort.
Absorbent Pads and Guards
Absorbent pads and guards offer a discreet and comfortable solution for men with light to moderate incontinence. Designed to be worn inside regular underwear, they provide effective leak protection without being noticeable. Ideal for daily use, these products allow men to maintain their usual activities with confidence and ease, ensuring both comfort and security.
Protective Underwear
Protective underwear, or men’s incontinence briefs, combine the look and feel of regular underwear with added absorbency for moderate to heavy incontinence. They ensure a secure fit, making them perfect for active individuals who require reliable protection without sacrificing comfort or appearance. This allows for confidence and freedom in daily activities.
Bed and Furniture Protectors
Bed and furniture protectors are essential for managing incontinence during rest periods. These protective covers keep mattresses and furniture dry and hygienic, providing peace of mind and preserving the cleanliness of living spaces. Ideal for nighttime use, they prevent moisture damage and maintain the integrity and comfort of sleep environments.
External Catheters
External catheters provide a discreet, non-invasive option for men managing incontinence. Worn over the penis, these devices channel urine into a connected drainage bag, allowing for continuous control and comfort without the use of traditional diapers. This makes them an ideal choice for those seeking an alternative solution to manage urinary output efficiently.By using these incontinence products, men can regain control of their lives and maintain their dignity. It is essential to choose the right product based on individual needs and lifestyle.
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 can only 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), which can relax bladder muscles, or injecting Botox can help ease bladder muscles.
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 usually use to stop urination. When starting out, do not overdo the contractions lest you damage the pelvic muscles.Overexertion may strain or injure the pelvic muscles, exacerbating the issue. Therefore, starting with a manageable number of repetitions and gradually increasing intensity is recommended. Consistent practice of Kegel exercises, integrated into daily routines, can significantly improve bladder control and minimize urinary leakage. Consult with a healthcare professional for tailored guidance and to ensure the exercises are performed correctly for optimal effectiveness.In addition to Kegel exercises, incorporating lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, managing fluid intake, and avoiding bladder irritants like caffeine and alcohol can further support incontinence management. Moreover, seeking guidance from a pelvic floor physiotherapist or a certified personal trainer experienced in pelvic floor rehabilitation can provide personalized exercise regimens tailored to individual needs and health conditions.Additionally, taking a holistic approach by addressing both physical and mental aspects of incontinence management can improve bladder control and overall well-being.
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 shuts 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 cough, sneeze, run, or laugh and lastly prostate removal.
Use of Incontinence Devices
Advances in medical technology have led to the manufacture of innovative devices designed to help men deal with the debilitating problem of incontinence. Such devices include catheters, urinary collection systems, and underwear guards. However, these devices should only be used after a diagnosis and on your doctor's recommendation.The most absorbent adult diaperis the most common method of dealing with incontinence among men, but there is no shortage of other effective solutions. First, you must visit a doctor to get a diagnosis and 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 is, there are ways to overcome it 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.
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 adopt an effective way to deal with incontinence. With time, mental problems manifest themselves, leading to further social problems for the patient.
