Based on the National Association for Continence estimates, about 25 million adults in the US have either chronic or temporary incontinence. However, not everyone is getting treated for the condition.
Some cases of incontinence may be mild and may not require extensive or invasive treatments other than a few lifestyle changes, but many types of incontinence can become a huge obstacle in life.
If one is experiencing urinary incontinence symptoms, it is best to get diagnosed and treated if required; here’s why.
An Underlying Condition May Go Unnoticed
Urinary incontinence may be caused by underlying health issues such as urinary tract infections. If one does not receive a proper diagnosis or treatment, the underlying health issue could get ignored and become more severe with time.
Although most urinary incontinence is caused by weak muscles or muscle imbalances, sometimes there may be other causes. If you do not get results with treatment for bladder leaks, further diagnostic testing may be necessary to find the cause.
Incontinence Can Take A Toll On Your Mental Health
Incontinence is not painful for most people, but it can be endlessly frustrating and embarrassing. This is mainly because people with incontinence have this constant fear of having an accidental leak.
As a result, they may stay isolated and away from loved ones. But over time, this self-imposed quarantine can make one feel depressed.
You Might Have To Lead A Physically Restricted Lifestyle
Another reason why incontinence takes a toll on your mental health is that it causes you to restrict yourself physically in many ways.
To avoid accidents and leaks, many people avoid things they used to enjoy like working out, cycling, hiking, and other activities. Some people may even avoid traveling due to the fear of being far from a bathroom at all times.
Can Be Directly And Indirectly Dangerous For Older Adults
Urinary incontinence is more common in the elderly population, and it is even more dangerous to leave it untreated in older and more vulnerable patients. This is because there is a higher risk of infection when the bladder is not emptied completely—the damage can also spread to the kidneys.
Additionally, urinary incontinence can lead to indirect harm. Not only will it add to an elderly person’s mental health challenges, but it can also increase the risk of falls and serious injuries since patients with continence are often rushing to make it to the bathroom in time.
If you’d like to learn more about bladder leakage and urinary incontinence, reach out to us at The Pelvic Coach. We offer holistic coaching and guidance on physical therapy for urinary incontinence.
For more information, please watch this free online presentation on bladder leaks to educate yourself on urinary incontinence and other urologic health issues at: thepelviccoach.com/free.
