Issue Date: December 17, 2006
HEALTH BRIEF
Incontinence: Seek help early for best results
Although urinary incontinence becomes more common with age, aging doesn't cause it. It's a medical matter affecting men and women both young and old.
Treatments can include biofeedback, bladder retraining and medicines.
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Instead of suffering silently and feeling embarrassed, talk to your doctor, urges Judi Lee Chervenak, M.D., of Albert Einstein College of Medicine. "Rapid identification is essential," she says. "The longer you wait, the worse it may get."
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What you need to know
3 common types
Stress incontinence (triggered by coughing, sneezing, heavy lifting).
Urge incontinence or overactive bladder (you feel you "gotta go" but can't get there quickly enough).
Overflow incontinence (the full bladder leaks).
Common causes
Conditions: diabetes, multiple sclerosis, urinary tract infection, constipation.
Medicines: tranquilizers, diuretics, blood pressure pills.
Diet: alcohol, colas, chocolate.
In women: pregnancy, childbirth, menopause.
In men: prostate problems.
Prevention tips
Perform Kegel exercises to strengthen pelvic muscles.
Limit fluids to avoid overflow.
Drink cranberry juice to prevent urinary tract infection.
Eat more fiber.
Before you visit a doctor
Keep a "Bladder Diary" to help identify your triggers and learn control. Bring it with you when you see your doctor. For a free printout, see http://kidney.niddk.nih.gov/kudiseases/pubs/diary/index.htm.
-- Susan T. Lennon
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