Urge Incontinence
(Diseases)
On this page, you will find everything you need to know about urge incontinence.
What is Urge Incontinence?
Urge incontinence is a type of urinary incontinence characterized by a sudden and intense urge to urinate, sometimes resulting in involuntary urine leakage before reaching the toilet. It is considered the most common form of incontinence, compared to other types such as stress incontinence and overflow incontinence.
- Urge incontinence is often a symptom of overactive bladder, also known as detrusor instability. (The detrusor muscle is the medical term for the bladder muscle.)
- What Are the Symptoms of Urge Incontinence?
- A sudden, intense urge to urinate is the primary symptom.
- Frequent urination (more than eight times a day) or nocturia (urinating more than twice at night).
Urine leakage before reaching the toilet or immediately after urination.
Urine leakage during sleep.
- What Are the Causes of Urge Incontinence?
Urge incontinence may result from:
- Overactive bladder syndrome.
- In addition, the following risk factors canincrease the likelihood of developing urge incontinence:
- Diabetes.
- Hysterectomy or other pelvic surgeries.
- Medications, including antidepressants, diuretics, and blood pressure medications.MS).
- Menopause..
- Neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis (MS).
- Obesity. (UTIs).
- Smoking.
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs).
- Pregnancy andchildbirth (especiallyvaginal delivery).
Previous pelvic radiation therapy for any reason.
Prostate problems, such as prostate cancer or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
- How Is Urge Incontinence Diagnosed?
- The doctor will take a medical history and perform a physical examination, and may request further investigations if needed, such as:
- Urinalysis to rule out infection, hematuria, and other issues.
- Ultrasound imaging of the bladder, kidneys, and other organs.
Cystoscopy to examine the urinary tract.
Urodynamic testing, including post-void residual measurement, to assess how well the urinary system holds and releases urine.
- What Are the Treatment Options for Urge Incontinence?
- Treatment may involve several approaches depending on the case, including:
- Pelvic floor exercises.
- Certain medications that reduce symptoms.
- Botox injections to treat incontinence.
Nerve stimulation therapy using a device that sends electrical impulses to the nerves.
Surgery.
- Can Urge Incontinence Be Prevented?
- Urge incontinence cannot always be prevented, but there are steps you can take to reduce the risk, such as:
- Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and body weight.
- Quitting smoking.
- Avoiding alcohol.
Strengthening the pelvic floor through targeted exercises.
Urinating regularly and avoiding holding urine for too long.
- What Are the Complications of Urge Incontinence?
- Neglecting urge incontinence can lead to several complications, including:
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs).
- Anxiety.
Depression.
Skin rashes or sores in the genital area.
When Should You See a Doctor?
You should see a doctor if you experience any of the symptoms of urge incontinence mentioned above.
- Frequently Asked:Questions:
- I have urinary incontinence. How canI tell what type I have?
- Stress incontinence: Occurs when:coughing or sneezing.
