Browse Medications by Everyday Health Concerns: Incontinence

Incontinence refers to the involuntary loss of bladder or bowel control. It's a common condition that can affect people of all ages, though it becomes more prevalent with age. This condition can range from occasional leaks to more frequent or complete loss of control, and it can significantly affect your daily life and confidence. Understanding incontinence helps you take proactive steps toward management, and empowers you to seek appropriate care to improve your quality of life.

Common symptoms of incontinence include:

• Leaking urine when you cough, sneeze, or laugh
• Urge to urinate frequently or urgently, sometimes leading to accidents
• Inability to control bowel movements
• A feeling of incomplete emptying after urinating

Incontinence can be caused by:

• Weak pelvic floor muscles, often due to pregnancy or childbirth
• Aging, as muscles and tissues lose strength over time
• Chronic conditions like diabetes, stroke, or neurological disorders
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs) that cause frequent urges to urinate
• Medications that affect bladder function or urine flow

Risk factors for incontinence include:

• Pregnancy and childbirth, which can weaken the pelvic floor muscles
• Older age, particularly postmenopausal women
• Obesity, which can put extra pressure on the bladder
• Chronic conditions such as diabetes, stroke, or spinal cord injuries
• Certain medications, like diuretics or sedatives

Diagnosing incontinence involves:

• A physical exam to check for signs of muscle weakness or nerve damage
• Urinalysis or imaging tests, like ultrasounds, to rule out infections or other issues
• Urodynamic tests to assess how well the bladder stores and empties urine

Treatment for incontinence may include:

• Pelvic floor exercises (Kegel exercises) to strengthen bladder control
• Medications, such as anticholinergics to calm an overactive bladder
• Bladder training to help retrain your bladder for better control
• Lifestyle changes, such as fluid management and weight loss

Medications for incontinence may include those that target bladder muscle control, such as anticholinergics or mirabegron. NiHowdy helps make these medications more affordable, so you can stay consistent with your treatment without financial concerns.

Incontinence can sometimes be prevented or managed with:

• Regular pelvic floor exercises to strengthen bladder control
• Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce pressure on the bladder
• Avoiding caffeine and alcohol, which can irritate the bladder
• Staying hydrated and practicing good bathroom habits

Managing incontinence at home includes:

• Performing Kegel exercises regularly to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles
• Using absorbent products, such as pads or underwear, for comfort and protection
• Maintaining a regular bathroom schedule to reduce urgency
• Monitoring fluid intake and avoiding bladder irritants like caffeine

If incontinence is interfering with your daily activities, is accompanied by pain, or occurs suddenly, it's important to seek medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment can help improve control and prevent complications.

NiHowdy helps make medications for incontinence more affordable, including those for bladder control or pelvic floor therapy. With Bitcoin rebates, NiHowdy ensures that the cost of managing your condition doesn't hinder your health goals.

Helen had struggled with urinary incontinence for years, affecting her social life and confidence. After starting medication and pelvic floor exercises, she began to regain control. Thanks to NiHowdy's savings on her medications, Helen was able to stay consistent with her treatment, improving her quality of life and regaining her independence.