Urinary incontinence is the loss of bladder control, this is a common condition and often embarrassing problem. It can be caused by a number of factors such as an infection or weakened pelvic muscles due to aging, prostate problems, mobility issues, stress, or pregnancy.
Incontinence is most usually seen in people over 50 and in pregnant women although it can affect people of any age. Incontinence isn’t an inevitable consequence of aging and interventions such as dietary and lifestyle changes can often treat symptoms of incontinence.
Anyone experiencing bladder control problems should consult a healthcare professional in order to check for possible underlying issues.The different types of urinary incontinence include:
1. Stress incontinence, where urine leaks when pressure is exerted on the bladder by coughing, lifting heavy objects, exercising, sneezing, or laughing.
2. Overflow incontinence, where frequent or constant dribbling of urine is experienced due to a bladder that doesn’t empty completely.
3. Functional incontinence is where a physical or mental impairment keeps a person from reaching the toilet in time.
4. Urge incontinence. With urge incontinence, there may be a sudden, intense urge to urinate which is followed by an involuntary loss of urine. You may need to urinate often, including throughout the night. Urge incontinence may be caused by a minor condition, such as infection, or a more severe condition such as a neurological disorder or diabetes.
5. Mixed incontinence is where more than one type of urinary incontinence is experienced, this most often refers to a combination of stress and urge incontinence.1. Weight reduction is an important consideration as obesity often plays a role in incontinence.
2. Feminine hygiene sprays and sanitary products may contain chemicals and fragrances that may irritate the bladder therefore it may be wise to avoid these.
3. Weak pelvic muscles may be involved in bladder incontinence problems, therefore doing daily pelvic exercises can help to strengthen these muscles and improve bladder control. lie on your back and breathe in, lift your hips slightly and constrict muscles of the pelvic floor similar to holding back a bowel movement. This should be done 2-3 times a day, the muscles should be constricted at least 200 times each session.
Nutrients and supplements:
1. Bladder control remedy – used for urinary incontinence (UI), any involuntary leakage of urine.
2. Vitamin A – aids in normalising bladder muscle function
3. Zinc – for improved bladder function
4. Vit B complex – a stress reliever and supplier of nutrients
5. Multi vits – a stress reliever and supplier of nutrients
6. Potassium – balances sodium and potassium in the body
7. Coral calcium – assists to control bladder spasmsUrinary incontinence can be influenced by several factors:
a. An underlying medical condition
i. Urinary tract infections may irritate the bladder.
ii. Constipation. Because the rectum is located near the bladder it shares many of the same nerves. The nerves in this area are often overstimulated by hard, compacted stool, thus increasing urinary frequency.
iii. Stress incontinence or urge incontinence can be associated with untreated prostate cancer in men, Incontinence can also be a side effect of treatments for prostate cancer. An enlarged prostate may also be a factor
iv. Neurological disorders such as Multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, a brain tumor, spinal injury, or stroke can interfere with nerve signals involved in bladder control, causing urinary incontinence.
b. Everyday habits
c. Physical problems like an obstruction such as a tumor anywhere along the urinary tract can block the normal flow of urine, leading to overflow incontinence. Urinary stones may sometimes cause urine leakage.
d. During pregnancy, hormonal changes and the increased weight of carrying the fetus can lead to stress incontinence. In childbirth muscles needed for bladder control may be weakened.
e. Urinary incontinence may be temporary and is usually caused by certain medications, foods, and drinks that may act as diuretics, these can stimulate the bladder and increase the volume of urine.
f. Changes due to aging may affect the bladder muscle, decreasing its capacity to store urine. Involuntary bladder contractions also become more frequent as one ages.
g. After menopause, less estrogen is produced, estrogen is a hormone that helps keep the lining of the bladder and urethra healthy. Deterioration of these tissues can aggravate incontinence.Bladder problems often represent anxiety, holding onto old ideas, the fear of letting go, and being out of control emotionally.
Incontinence provides the opportunity to let go, in response to life’s pressures.
Bedwetting as well as crying can unload inner pressures by way of ‘letting go. Incontinence could be described as a kind of ‘lower level crying’. The following can act as diuretics so should be avoided: alcohol, chocolate, caffeine, fizzy drinks, artificial sweeteners, chili peppers, spicy foods, acidic and citrus fruits. Also, avoid refined and processed foods.
Urinary SystemBladder control remedy