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What Is Urinary Incontinence?

Urinary incontinence is an inability to properly control the bladder, which can result in the accidental release of urine. Urinary incontinence is not a disease in and of itself, but rather is a symptom of other underlying conditions and can be caused by many different health issues.

  1. Stress Incontinence

    • Stress incontinence is urinary leakage that occurs when pressure or strain is applied to the bladder. This type of incontinence often occurs due to weak muscles around the bladder, which make it difficult to hold in urine. Stresses that can result in leakage include pressing on the abdomen on top of the bladder, lifting heavy objects and violent sneezing, coughing or laughing. According to the National Institute of Aging, stress incontinence common in menopausal women.

    Functional Incontinence

    • Functional incontinence is urinary leakage that occurs due to physical or mental limitations. For instance, an elderly person might have average bladder control, but due to an inability to quickly get up and walk to the bathroom, they may not be able to reach a toilet in time. Another cause of functional incontinence is dementia. For example, an Alzheimer's patient might not have the foresight to plan a trip to the bathroom until the need to urinate is imminent, at which point it may be too late.

    Urge Incontinence

    • Urge incontinence is characterized by a sudden and imminent need to urinate, making it difficult to reach a toilet in time before urinating. Urge incontinence can occur due to overworked or spastic muscles around the bladder. Urge incontinence may also occur if the nerves become damaged, making it difficult to sense the need to urinate until the need is imminent.

    Temporary Incontinence

    • There are several habits and risk factors that can lead to temporary incontinence, which will usually cease once the cause is remedied. According to the Mayo Clinic, alcohol and caffeine can act as bladder stimulants, which can cause incontinence. Drinking too much water too quickly will tend to make the bladder fill quickly, which may lead to incontinence. Things that can irritate the bladder like high concentrations of sugar, tea and coffee, and spicy or acidic food may also lead to temporary incontinence.

    Urinary Infection

    • Another potential cause of incontinence and a feeling of constant need to go to the bathroom are urinary tract infections, or UTIs. UTIs typically occur when bacteria gains access to the urinary tract through the urethra. UTIs can also cause discomfort and pain when urinating. UTIs can usually be overcome quickly by taking antibiotics, but a failure to treat a UTI can cause the infection to spread up the urinary tract, potentially affecting the kidneys. Therefore, if think you have a UTI, seek medical advice immediately.

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