Urinary Incontinence is the umbrella term for any unintentional leakage of urine. It is a common cause of discomfort for millions of men worldwide suffering from temporary or chronic urinary issues. UI can be a very embarrassing condition that can cause a man to withdraw from social activities and curtail interactions with others. UI is also a symptom of many lower urinary tract conditions that should be evaluated by a medical professional. A thorough examination can rule out serious disorders such as bladder cancer or infection. There are three types of urinary incontinence:
Urge incontinence, also referred to as overactive bladder, occurs when the bladder contracts suddenly causing a significant urge to urinate. The underlying sources of urge incontinence are many and varied, with lifestyle, age and urine obstruction being three of the most common causes. Patients usually cannot reach the bathroom in time and may face embarrassment as a result. Urge incontinence can also be a symptom of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) which can cause the partial or complete obstruction of the urethra. Learn more about urge incontinence.
Additional pressure or stress on the abdomen can force urine out of the bladder when someone least expects it. These pressures can be caused by obesity or previous pelvic surgery and require the patient to urinate frequently to avoid a mishap. Stress incontinence can be caused by regular everyday activities such as laughing, sneezing, coughing and other activities that stress the abdomen. A combination of urge and stress incontinence is aptly named mixed incontinence.
Functional incontinence occurs when a patient loses their ability to reach the bathroom in time to urinate. This is usually a problem with a person’s motor functions versus a problem with the bladder itself. Causes of functional incontinence may include mild or severe physical disability or the progression of degenerative neurological diseases such as dementia.
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