Urinary incontinence is characterized by the involuntary loss of urine. It can affect people of all ages, both sexes, and all socioeconomic backgrounds. However, the condition primarily affects the female population, because the urethra (the tube through which urine passes) is shorter and the pelvic floor muscles are weaker, making it harder to support its structure. It typically affects 45% of women and 15% of men over the age of 40, according to the Brazilian Society of Urology.<\/p>\n
Although it\u2019s common, it\u2019s not normal\u2014and there is treatment available. To help you understand better, we\u2019ve put together some essential information on the topic. Check it out!<\/p>\n
According to the Brazilian Society of Urology (SBU), there are three types of urinary incontinence:<\/p>\n
. Stress incontinence: leakage of urine when coughing, laughing, or exercising;
\n. Urgency: this occurs when the urge to urinate is very intense and sudden, preventing the person from reaching the bathroom in time;
\n. Mixed: a combination of the two previous types.<\/p>\n
Urinary incontinence is an uncomfortable and unpleasant condition that can have a variety of causes. However, in older adults, age-related changes in the body contribute to the problem. Weakening of the bladder muscles, obesity, weakening of the pelvic floor muscles (in women), and an enlarged prostate (in men) are among the main causes\u2014in addition to the use of diuretic medications, cognitive disorders, and mobility issues.<\/p>\n
It is also important to note that, according to the SBU, 30% of people suffering from this condition end up developing depression and anxiety. This condition is caused by a lack of control over one\u2019s own body, leading to isolation due to the fear of an unexpected incident occurring in public. The result is that these patients stop engaging in everyday activities and, as a result, lose quality of life, which is so essential to the process of maturing.<\/p>\n
Therefore, if you notice symptoms such as pain and\/or a burning sensation when urinating, urine output that is higher or lower than normal, changes in color or odor, fever, leakage during the day or night, or blood in the urine, do not hesitate to seek professional help.<\/p>\n
The best way to prevent the disease is to manage risk factors: maintaining a healthy weight, strengthening the pelvic floor muscles, and managing diabetes, as well as reducing consumption of alcohol, cigarettes, beverages high in sugar and caffeine, and foods that have a diuretic effect.<\/p>\n
Don\u2019t suffer in silence. See a urologist if you experience any of the symptoms described above.<\/p>\n