According to reports from the Urinary Care Foundation, nearly 25% of all men and women in the United States suffer from urinary incontinence. Although this condition is often viewed as an unavoidable part of aging, it can be difficult for some people to deal with.
What Is Urinary Incontinence?
Urinary incontinence (UI) is a condition that describes the involuntary release of urine. This condition could involve any part of the complex urinary system, including the bladder, the sphincters, and the pelvic floor muscles that provide support for the urethra, pelvis, and bladder. When any part of this system fails to perform correctly, it can lead to leaking.
Symptoms of Urinary Incontinence
Individuals with this condition can experience leaking. Leaks can happen in several ways, including drips or a total loss of urine. In some cases, the strong urge to urinate may come on prior to the complete evacuation of urine from the bladder.
Types of Urinary Incontinence
There are several different types of urinary incontinence that a person can experience.
Stress Incontinence
This type of UI occurs when the bladder experiences an increased amount of stress from the abdominal area. This could be a result of coughing, laughing, exercising, lifting a heavy object, or sneezing. In some older women, stress incontinence may be caused by prolonged standing or sitting.
When the muscles are too weak or too slow to completely close the urethral passage while under pressure, it can lead to a leak.
Urge Incontinence
When involuntary bladder muscle contractions occur, it can lead to the feeling of suddenly needing to urinate. The pelvis muscles and the sphincters are then prompted to release urine immediately, which can happen at any time.
Mixed
There are instances where individuals experience symptoms of both types of urinary incontinence.
Get Help for Urinary Incontinence Now
To explore treatment options available to help you overcome urinary incontinence, contact our team at Craig Ranch OB/GYN. We can help you determine the best care options to help alleviate your symptoms. Our top-rated obstetrics and gynecology practice is committed to providing quality services and care for every patient. Get started today by calling 214-544-6600 to schedule an appointment at our McKinney, TX, office.
