Understanding & Living With Urinary Incontinence: Men’s Edition
With 25% of all people suffering from urinary incontinence (UI) being males, UI needs to be discussed, and taken seriously. Affordable Medical Supply presents how men can understand and live with urinary incontinence to lead a more comfortable and sustainable life.
Understanding Male Incontinence
The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases says a healthy male bladder can hold about two cups of urine during the day and about four cups at night. When the circular muscles which help to control urine, called sphincters, become too relaxed, it can result in incontinence.
Risk Factors Of Male Incontinence
There are several risk issues which lead to incontinence. Factors include:
- Aging: Muscles begin to lose strength as they age which can lead to incontinence.
- Existing Medical Conditions: Diseases and health issues such as diabetes, stroke, Alzheimer’s, obesity, and Parkinson’s can lead to incontinence.
- Pelvic Surgeries: Lower back, bowel, and prostate surgeries can damage urinary tract nerves, leading to incontinence.
- Prostate Problems: The three main prostate issues that lead to incontinence are:
- Prostatitis: Inflammation of the prostate.
- Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): Enlargement of the prostate.
- Prostate Cancer Treatments: Damage to sphincter due to cancer treatment.
- Urinary Tract Infections: Bacterial infection in the urinary tract can lead to incontinence.
Types Of Male Incontinence
Understanding urinary incontinence remains crucial to determine the best solution. The most common types of UI in men are:
- Urge Incontinence: Knowingly feeling the need to urinate but cannot make it to the restroom in time. Urge incontinence is commonly referred to as overactive bladder (OAB).
- Stress Incontinence: Occurs with pressure on the bladder or abdominal muscles. Stress incontinence commonly occurs while laughing, sneezing, coughing, or lifting objects.
- Mixed Incontinence: Urine may leak due to a combination of urge and stress incontinence. Mixed Incontinence will have symptoms of both types.
- Overflow Incontinence: Urine may leak because the bladder is unable to hold the regular amount of urine and the bladder will never entirely empty. Overflow incontinence is commonly called dribbling.
- Functional Incontinence: Even when one has the urge to use the bathroom, urine may leak because they are unable to make it to the facilities due to physical issues.
Preventing Incontinence
Many men are unable to avoid urinary incontinence no matter their age or physical health; however, there are healthy choices they can make to help.
Stop Smoking
Nicotine products cause health problems and worsen urinary incontinence. Smoking worsens the UI because coughing weakens abdominal muscles. Nicotine also irritates the bladder and will worsen incontinence symptoms.
Manage Fluids
Healthy fluid intake is one of the most effective ways to combat UI. Drinking smaller amounts of water periodically throughout the day instead of all at once is conducive to fluid intake. Also, time intake around activities to prevent inconvenient urges or leaks.
Healthy Diet
Obesity and bad eating habits cause unnecessary pressure and bloating to the muscles that control urine flow. Eliminate foods that inflame the urinary tract, including foods and drinks with high amounts of sugar, dairy, or caffeine. Instead, consume fresh, unrefined foods and substantial amounts of fruits and vegetables to help heal the bladder.
Care Products & Support
Living with incontinence is not enough. Talking to your family and friends is an effective way to deal with the stress that comes with UI. Opening a conversation not only helps you but also normalizes male incontinence. If you are unable to express your feelings in a conducive manner, therapy is always an option. Affordable Medical Supply understands every case of incontinence is different. For over 41 years, we have prided ourselves on working with our customers on a one-on-one basis to determine which products best fit your needs and budget. If you are ready to find lasting solutions to living with urinary incontinence, call Affordable Medical Supply today at 866-484-7599!
