- my iParenting
- quick clicks
- grandparents today articles
- grandparents today q&a
- community & groups
- research baby names
- prepare a birth plan
- content channels
- ip channel rss feeds
- read birth stories
- read parenting stories
- recommended books
- e-newsletters
- safety recalls
- ip diaries
- ip store
- mom of the month
- dad of the month
- editor's letter
- letters to the editor
From Our Sponsors
- e-newsletters
- Sign up to receive our free weekly e-newsletters
- award-winning products
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families.
Expert Q&A
 |  |  |
| By Denise Elser, M.D. Urogynecologist | ||
 |
My problem is bladder control at night when I lie down. After I lie down for a few hours I lose control. I use pads but it gets worse after 4 p.m. I am a female, 68 years old and overweight, but have changed my eating habits and lost 50 pounds. I have had this condition for at least six years. Help!"
First off, congratulations for losing the weight. A lighter you is better for your heart and your bladder.
I wonder if you notice swelling in your feet when you are up and about. As we get past age 60 ... the lower parts of our bodies tend to accumulate fluid.
When we lie down, this fluid is now level with the heart. It ... gets pumped to the kidneys and made into urine. In the lying down position, women over age 60 tend to make twice as much urine as they do when sitting or standing.
Your answer may be as simple as a diuretic or "water pill" to prevent the accumulation of fluid. You should ask your primary care doctor."