Physical side effects of incontinence
Chronic urinary incontinence can lead to uncomfortable side effects that impact how you live your life, including:
- Rashes, skin infections and sores can develop from constantly wet skin.
- Increased risk of repeated urinary tract infections.
The emotional toll of incontinence
Men who suffer from urinary incontinence also suffer substantial psychological impacts. This impact leaves them with deep trauma due to:
- Perceived rejection
- Social isolation
- Loss of control
- Dependency on others
Your frustration is completely normal
A study showed that bladder weakness and bladder leakage in older adults could cause immense loneliness leading to depression. People suffering from urinary incontinence often end up trying to hide it, deny it, not wanting to talk about it or pretend not to be bothered by it. It can be challenging to understand such behavior, but this is not the end.
How to deal with bladder leakage
When dealing with urinary incontinence, it’s important to take care of your whole self, as you might notice emotional changes or even a hesitancy to go out and be active like you once did. Here are a few strategies you could put in place:
Get Medical Attention
Always start by identifying what the core issue is. Why did the problem start, and how? This can help the person going through this issue understand what went wrong and how. lt will boost their confidence and help them understand the problem itself. lt is the first step to getting better- physically and emotionally.
Lose Weight and Start Exercising
A significant cause for urine leakage in men can be being overweight. Losing weight can help improve the condition, better physical health and boost the mood (exercise literally produces chemicals that make you happier).
Follow the Directions of your Health Care Professional
If your doctor recommends a particular treatment, be it a device, medication or regimen such as pelvic floor exercises (Kegels) its important that you follow their directions and check in with them if your situation isn't improving. They are there to help you.
Start Counseling or Group Therapy
In older adults, therapies like counseling and group discussions have been shown to work tremendously. Consider joining a group where you can openly discuss your issues. It tells you that you are not alone and that other people are going through the same problems.
Use Bladder Control Products
The ideal second step is to deal with the issue by starting using bladder control products such as Contino® . These products can help control incontinence and avoid incidents that may cause shame and public embarrassment.
The Contino® Care team is here to support you on your incontinence journey
As part of your initial fitting with a Contino® trainer, you’ll also learn behavioural and exercise techniques to support the physical side. As well, Contino® Support is always available to answer questions and support you along the way.