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The Top 12 Questions About Incontinence
What Caregivers Should Be Asking Loved Ones' Doctors
By Melissa Granberry
As we have discussed in a previous article, Incontinence: Types and Safety, there are several types of incontinence. According to Dr. Nitti, however, two of the most common types are urge and stress incontinence.
Urge incontinence (also known as overactive bladder) occurs when a sudden urge is accompanied by a loss of urine. "Patients usually feel the urge but are unable to make it to the bathroom," he says.
Stress incontinence is characterized by a loss of urine caused by an activity, such as coughing, sneezing, laughing, walking or standing up from a seated position. "Stress incontinence has more to do with a weak urethra or weak outlet," says Dr. Nitti.
The doctor will determine your loved one's type of incontinence through a physical exam, medical history and testing. As a caregiver, your input about their condition will be vital in detecting the type of incontinence and deciding upon treatment options.
There are many different causes of urinary incontinence, as we have discussed in the previous article, Cause and Effect: The Causes of Urinary Incontinence and Ways to Manage It. The patient and caregiver must work with the doctor to determine the type and cause of incontinence and prepare the best plan for treatment.
Dr. Nitti lists a few of the common reasons for urinary incontinence:
- Medications
- Urinary tract infections
- Dementia or confusion
- Constipation
- Surgeries, such asprostrate procedures or hysterectomies