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The Top 12 Questions About Incontinence
What Caregivers Should Be Asking Loved Ones' Doctors
By Melissa Granberry
Though not life threatening, incontinence can cause disruption of daily activities or other conditions such as depression and skin irritation.
Caregivers can help keep infections and rashes to a minimum by changing absorbent products frequently and using a rash or anti-fungal cream on affected areas. Also, be aware that depression is fairly common among patients with Alzheimer's or dementia, and you should bring any signs of this illness to the doctor's attention.
Urinary incontinence may be temporary when caused by conditions such as infection or constipation. "Most of the time the condition is chronic," says Dr. Denise Elser, who specializes in the area of incontinence in women at Advocate Christ Medical Center in Chicago, IL, but adds that it is also a very treatable and manageable condition.
Many people with incontinence have found absorbent products that work well with their busy lifestyles and do not want to treat the condition with medications or surgeries. "Many times, patients just want to be reassured that they do not have a more serious medical condition causing the incontinence," Dr. Elser says. A physician will be able to determine the cause of the bladder leakage and if treatment is necessary.
Behavioral modification often can help manage incontinence. These include Kegels, which are exercises designed to strengthen the pelvic floor; bladder retraining, a behavioral technique that involves scheduling bathroom visits and gradually increasing the time between urination; and biofeedback techniques, which help patients identify and control the correct muscles around the bladder opening. All are safe, non-invasive techniques which can help improve or eliminate incontinence.