Incontinence, specifically urinary incontinence, is the involuntary leakage of urine. Symptoms range from mild leakage of a small amount of fluid to the inability to hold any urine at all. It is more common in women and the elderly and affects millions of people in the U.S. There are several causes of urinary incontinence.
Stress Incontinence
Stress incontinence is leakage that occurs during physical movements such as exercising, coughing, laughing, lifting something or sneezing. The movement increases pressure in the abdomen, which presses down on the bladder. The pelvic muscles keeping the bladder closed are weak, for example from childbirth, changes with age or surgery, leading to leakage of urine.
Overflow Incontinence
Overflow incontinence is the leakage of urine from a full, overflowing bladder. It typically is caused by something blocking the urinary flow, such as a tumor, but can also be caused by diabetes or certain medications. Examples of such medications include some cough and cold drugs, antidepressants, anti-psychotics, beta blockers for high blood pressure and antihistamines for allergies.
Urge Incontinence
Urge incontinence occurs when the urge to urinate comes on strongly and suddenly, often only a few seconds to minutes before urination. It is more common in the elderly and is caused frequently by an overactive bladder or urinary tract infection. It may also be due to bladder cancer, inflammation, bladder stones or neurological diseases such as multiple sclerosis or spinal cord injury.
Functional Incontinence
Functional incontinence is leakage or urination due to limitations in communicating, thinking, moving or external obstacles that prevent a person from getting to the toilet. It is the most common type found in older adults with such conditions as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and arthritis.
Anatomic Incontinence
Anatomic problems can also be a cause of incontinence. For example, a fistula, which is an abnormal opening or connection, can form between the bladder and another structure such as the skin. It can also be caused by structural problems with the bladder neck or urethra.
Transient Incontinence
Transient or temporary incontinence is not chronic. It can be caused by alcohol, over-hydration and medications such as heart and blood pressure medications, muscle relaxants and sedatives. Bladder irritation can be caused by dehydration leading to concentrated urine, carbonated drinks, coffee, tea, corn syrup and artificial sweeteners. In addition foods high in sugar or spice content such as citrus can also irritate the bladder.
