Urinary incontinence is when urine accidentally leaks. Anywhere from 5% to 15% of men over the age of 60 are affected.
Often targeting the cause of urinary problems can help you and your doctor find the best treatment option to reduce bladder leakage.
Common Causes of Urinary Incontinence
- Prostate problems. Prostate problems, especially as men age, can result in problems with urinary incontinence. If the prostate is enlarged, it may affect the flow of urine and cause a weak stream, frequent urination, or leaking. When the prostate is removed for cancer treatment, it is common to have stress incontinence, meaning coughing or sneezing can trigger leakage.
- Conditions that cause nerve damage. Because muscles and nerves must work together to control the bladder, any condition that damages nerves can create urinary problems. Conditions can include Parkinson’s, a stroke, diabetes, or multiple sclerosis. Injuries of the spinal cord can also result in urinary incontinence.
- What you drink. Certain types of beverages can put stress on the urinary system. Limiting the amount of alcohol, caffeine, or carbonated beverages that you drink can help reduce bladder leakage. Staying hydrated is important but it is not necessary to drink a certain amount of water during the day.
- Being overweight. Being overweight can cause or worsen male incontinence because extra weight weakens the muscles that help with bladder function. Obesity may affect female incontinence more than in men, but it can still be a factor of male incontinence.
Treating Male Incontinence
There are many ways to ease male incontinence symptoms if you’re a patient in Lafayette, including behavioral treatments, medication, and surgery. Contact Southern Urology today to talk with our physicians about urinary incontinence treatments.
Sources:
http://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/health-topics/urologic-disease/urinary-incontinence-in-men/Pages/facts.aspx
