Urinary incontinence, the involuntary leakage of urine, is a problem that can greatly impact a person’s quality of life if it’s not treated properly.

Stress Incontinence and Overactive Bladder

There are many different types of urinary incontinence. Two of the most common issues regarding urinary incontinence include stress incontinence and urge incontinence. Stress incontinence, also known as effort incontinence, is caused by weakness of the pelvic floor muscles. Strong pelvic floor muscles normally serve to prevent urine from passing. Urge incontinence, also known as an “overactive bladder,” involves the leakage of urine accompanied by a forceful urge to urinate.

A June 2014 study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that between 30 to 40 percent of people over the age of 65 who live on their own suffered from some sort of urinary leakage, and 24 percent of older adults suffer from moderate to severe urinary incontinence. Women also tend to experience urinary incontinence more than men due to different urinary tract structures.

Regardless of age or gender, urinary incontinence can affect anyone. Effective treatments for urinary incontinence are available and may include medications, physical therapy, and even surgical options.

If you have any questions about urinary incontinence or would like to schedule an appointment, please contact us at 239-226-ASAP (2727).