Incontinence as a Symptom to a Bigger Problem

Incontinence is not a fun subject to talk about, but learning about it can help you with your problem.

Many think of incontinence as a medical condition all on its own, but it is actually considered a symptom. It may be a symptom of different types of medical issues. When incontinence presents itself, whether urinary or fecal, it should be dealt with knowing that it could mean a more serious problem lies under the surface of the problem. While incontinence is never an easy subject to talk about with your doctor or loved one, it is necessary.

Urinary incontinence is caused by aging and bladder-related medical issues. While aging is not a medical condition in and of itself, it does mean there is a greater risk for a more complex medical condition than in a younger person. Most often, the more severe health conditions that cause incontinence are found in men rather than women.

Urinary incontinence can be caused by an enlarged prostate or prostate cancer, which can press and squeeze the urethra, causing urine to be released at different times. Men, as well as women, can also have incontinence caused by neurological diseases like Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis, a stroke or even a tumor in the brain. The presence of cancer in the bladder can also be a cause of urinary incontinence.

Just like urinary incontinence, fecal incontinence can be a warning sign of a more serious underlying medical condition. Diseases that affect nerves in the rectum, such as diabetes and multiple sclerosis, are at a higher risk for fecal incontinence. Chron’s disease, ulcerative colitis, rectal cancer or any other condition that stiffens the walls of the rectum can lead to fecal incontinence.

Talking with someone about your incontinence is never an easy thing. It is an embarrassing symptom, but a symptom none the less. If you or a loved one is suffering from incontinence, you need to talk to your doctor about it right away. Ignoring it or just trying to deal with it yourself can put off treatment for the underlying condition causing your incontinence.

If you live with incontinence and the effects, Medi-Rents has many incontinence products for you to choose from. Check out our online catalog for all of your home medical needs!