Neurological Reasons for Bladder Incontinence

Bladder incontinence is caused by a variety of neurological conditions. Diseases and conditions that affect the brain and central nervous system can cause cognitive decline and a loss of muscle control, resulting in bladder incontinence.

Definition

• Bladder incontinence, or urinary incontinence, refers to the inability to control the expulsion of urine from the bladder. Neurological conditions can cause bladder incontinence by interrupting communication between the nerves and the urinary tract.

Conditions

• Neurological disorders that may cause bladder incontinence include multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease and stroke.

Types

• According to Merck.com, bladder incontinence from neurological impairment is known as functional incontinence. Other types of bladder incontinence are urge incontinence, stress incontinence and overflow incontinence.

Awareness

• Alzheimer's disease or stroke can cause bladder incontinence, as patients with such neurological conditions may lose awareness of the need to urinate or be unable to locate a toilet.

Muscles

• Patients with Parkinson's disease or multiple sclerosis may experience bladder incontinence due to the lack of muscle coordination and strength caused by their illness. The sphincter muscles may be too weak or unresponsive to control the release of urine.