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A Prescription for Discussion
The Importance of Seeing a Health Care Provider About Incontinence
By Lyn Mettler
But getting beyond these concerns can have a wealth of benefits for those who decide to discuss the issue with a health care provider, be it a doctor, nurse, physical therapist or surgeon.
First, he or she can help explain the biology of incontinence and offer a variety of treatments tailored specifically to your needs. In fact, the physician may offer suggestions about methods to manage your incontinence, including wearing absorbent products.
The survey found that 47 percent of those who had been diagnosed by a health care provider felt they were managing their condition successfully as opposed to 32 percent of those who were undiagnosed. In addition, nearly all those diagnosed said they were more likely to manage their symptoms compared with less than half of those undiagnosed.
But in addition to getting the medical treatment you need and finding success managing your symptoms, talking with your doctor also can affect your mental attitude. Those who have been diagnosed are nearly twice as likely to report higher self-esteem, according to the survey findings.
"When people are diagnosed and pursue treatment, research shows they have higher levels of self-esteem, better control of life and their life choices and are able to function more fully in life," says Muller.
Why? In part it may be he relief of finally having the discussion behind you, but Muller says it's also related to "making progress on actively trying to tackle [incontinence]."
