NEW Solutions for Incontinence

How do I know if this exciting new technology is right for me?

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Only a physician can help you determine if these life-changing procedures are right for you.  There are certain steps the physician will take to help determine the best solution for you. 

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A proper diagnosis:  What type of incontinence do you have? 

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Understanding the different types of Urinary Incontinence:

1. Stress Incontinence (SUI):  involuntary leakage of urine from the bladder accompanying physical activity (such as laughing, coughing, sneezing, or physical exercise) which places increased pressure on the abdomen.   As the condition progresses, any movement that increases pressure in the abdomen—such as bending over—may cause leakage.

 

1. Urge Incontinence:  involuntary leakage of urine from the bladder when a sudden strong need to urinate is felt.  According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, 16 Dec. 1998, it is “is usually associated with detrusor instability or reduced bladder capacity.”

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The distinction between these two types of incontinence is important because there are distinct and separate solutions for each type.  Some people have a combination of both.  A physician who specializes in Incontinence related issues can help you determine which type of incontinence you have and will guide treatment decisions and determine the appropriate solution for you.  He or she will ask about your symptoms.  You may be asked to do a simple maneuver that will demonstrate leaking, such as coughing.   The doctor may order medical tests to accurately diagnosis the type of incontinence and its underlying cause.    

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What can I do to help determine a proper diagnosis?

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Before going to a doctor, it is very helpful for you to pay close attention to factors that influence your incontinence.  You may even want to keep a "Bladder Diary" to aid in the physician’s accurate diagnosis.  For at least two weeks, try to record as much information as possible about your bathroom trips and incontinence.  Pay attention to what preceded your incontinence episodes.  Were you exerting energy through any type of physical activity when you had an incontinence episode?  Were you coughing or laughing? Were you getting up out of a chair?  You may have a strong urge to urinate without moving at all, but does the incontinence occur before or after you start moving toward the bathroom?  It is also helpful if you record how much you drink, when you urinate, whether or not you had an urge to urinate, the amount of urine eliminated.  Record the number of incontinence episodes, and how many pads you used each day.  

 

Then share this information when you meet with a physician who specializes in incontinence.  Call us today to find a specialist in your area who can provide a broad range of incontinence solutions -- including the advanced technology we have discussed on this website for SUI (stress urinary incontinence).