A Guide to Overflow Incontinence

Key Takeaways:

• Overflow incontinence is a condition in which urine leaks constantly or slowly due to a full bladder that cannot be emptied. It is more common in men with enlarged prostates as compared to stress or urge incontinence.
• Lifestyle changes such as maintaining regular bowel movements, quitting smoking, avoiding bladder irritants, and managing weight can help in controlling this condition. Incontinence supplies, such as absorbent pads and undergarments, can also provide discreet protection.
• Bladder training and Kegel exercises are some of the ways to improve bladder control. Moreover, medications may be prescribed depending on the cause of incontinence.
• If you experience sudden urine loss, other neurological symptoms, or cloudy/bloody urine, it is essential to consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
• HPFY offers a variety of medical supplies to manage overflow and other types of incontinence.

1. Lifestyle changes

• It is crucial to maintain regular bowel movements to avoid constipation. Fiber helps soften the stools by absorbing water, which can help relieve constipation.
• Smoking can also lead to bladder irritation and is known to increase your risk for bladder cancer. Hence, many doctors prescribe quitting smoking altogether to manage overflow incontinence.
• Coffee and alcohol can irritate the bladder; consider avoiding or cutting down on them.
• If you are overweight, losing weight is a good idea.
• Avoid consuming foods and drinks that may irritate your bladder. These include spicy foods, carbonated beverages, and citrus fruits and juices.
• If you have diabetes, it is important to keep your blood sugar levels under good control.

2. Use of incontinence supplies

For individuals experiencing urine leaks, discreet absorbent pads or undergarments are available. These products, such as adult diapers and underpads, can prevent the soiling of clothes and linen, particularly during the night. They can help individuals maintain an active social life despite their condition. High-quality incontinence briefs and pads can keep the skin soft and supple and prevent instances of diaper rash.

3. Bladder and Pelvic Floor Training

Bladder training makes bladder muscles stronger and improves bladder control. Similarly, Kegel exercises strengthen the muscles of your pelvic floor. Your doctor or therapist can demonstrate how to perform these exercises properly. It's essential to perform these exercises accurately, even if you think you're doing them correctly. Often, formal bladder strengthening and retraining with a pelvic floor specialist can benefit those who need additional assistance.

4. Medications

Your doctor may prescribe medications depending on the type of incontinence you have. These medications can help prevent bladder muscle spasms, relax the bladder, and improve bladder function. Your provider can assist you in learning how to take these medicines effectively and manage any potential side effects.

5. Surgery

In case other treatments fail to treat your incontinence or if you suffer from severe incontinence, your healthcare provider may suggest surgery. The type of surgery varies based on the type of incontinence you have, the severity of the symptoms, and the underlying causes.

6. Catheterization

If you are experiencing overflow incontinence or are unable to empty your bladder, using a urinary catheter may be necessary. Depending on your situation, you may require a catheter that is left in place for an extended period or one that you are taught to insert and remove on your own.

7. Electrotherapy

Urge incontinence and urinary frequency can be treated by electrotherapy. This technique involves using pulses of electricity to reprogram bladder reflexes. There are two methods of doing this. One method involves inserting a stimulator through the skin near a nerve in the leg. It is done weekly in the provider's office. The other method involves implanting a battery-operated device, like a pacemaker, under the lower back skin.

8. Botox Injections

Urge incontinence can be treated with an injection of onabotulinum A toxin, commonly known as Botox. This injection can relax the bladder muscle and increase its storage capacity. The procedure involves an injection through a thin tube with a camera on the end, also called a cystoscope. In most cases, this procedure can be done in the provider's office.