Urge Urinary Incontinence: How to Stop Urine from Leaking

Urge urinary incontinence, a condition that you may have come across, is a common yet often neglected issue. This means that many people suffer from this condition, which is more common than you might expect. Research has linked it to various factors, some of which are within our control. So, without further ado, let’s dive in and explore this topic further.

Understanding Urge Urinary Incontinence

Sometimes, you might feel an intense urge to urinate, followed by an involuntary loss of urine. This condition is often referred to as urge urinary incontinence. More than just a nuisance. It’s a genuine medical condition that can drastically affect your daily life. However, many people don’t seek help due to embarrassment or lack of information.

The Causes of Urge Urinary Incontinence

Understanding the causes of this condition can often help in managing it effectively. It’s usually caused by an overactive bladder muscle that contracts too often. Other possible causes of urge urinary incontinence include:

• Neurological disorders: Disorders like stroke, Parkinson’s disease, or multiple sclerosis may affect the nerves controlling the bladder.
• Urinary tract infections: These infections can cause symptoms similar to urge urinary incontinence.
• Certain medications: Some drugs can cause or increase symptoms of incontinence.

How to Stop Urine from Leaking

In people with urge urinary incontinence, there are strategies to stop urine from leaking. More than just medical treatments, lifestyle changes, and at-home remedies can be very effective. Aim for a holistic approach – it’s about how well you take care of your overall health as well as managing the symptoms. Here are some ways you can try:

1. Sit Down

Sometimes, the simple act of sitting can ease the intense desire to urinate. This position reduces the pressure exerted on the bladder, helping to alleviate the immediate need. When you feel a sudden urge, find a place to sit down and relax your body. This can often help decrease the strong urge to urinate.

2. Pelvic Floor Exercises

During and after pregnancy, women often hear about pelvic floor exercises, also known as Kegels. Studies show that these exercises are not only beneficial for postpartum recovery but also for people suffering from incontinence. By making sure to contract and relax the muscles that support your bladder, you may improve bladder control.

Keep reading: 6 Pelvic Floor Exercises

3. Heel Raises

Performing heel raises can distract your body and mind from the sudden urge to urinate. This method works by shifting the focus to the muscles being exercised, away from the overactive bladder. During these sudden urges, the act of engaging other muscles can often lessen the immediate need to urinate.

4. Scheduled Toilet Trips

Rather than waiting for the urge to hit, scheduling your bathroom visits can help manage urinary incontinence. Try these: go to the toilet at specific times during the day, like every two hours.

5. Belly Breathing

Deep belly breathing is another method that can be used to manage immediate urinary incontinence. By focusing on your breathing, you can divert your mind from the urge to urinate. It also has a calming effect on the body, reducing tension and helping to relax the bladder muscles, thereby lessening the immediate need to go to the toilet.

6. Healthy Diet

Because people with urge urinary incontinence may be sensitive to certain foods and drinks, a healthy diet can play a significant role. Avoid food and drinks that irritate the bladder, like caffeine and alcohol. Instead, aim for meals that contain high fiber to prevent constipation, which can worsen incontinence.

7. Quit Smoking

Research has linked smoking to incontinence. If you’re a smoker, quitting can significantly improve your symptoms. Also, smoking can cause chronic coughs, which can, in turn, worsen incontinence.

8. Maintain a Healthy Weight

For those carrying extra pounds, weight loss can help reduce incontinence. Overweight individuals often have extra pressure on their bladders, leading to an increased urge to urinate.

9. Bladder Training

Bladder training involves gradually extending the time between your toilet trips. This method, over time, can improve bladder control and reduce episodes of incontinence.

10. Medication

If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, you may consider medication. Some drugs can calm an overactive bladder, giving you more control.

11. Wear Protective Products

As we mentioned above, incontinence can affect your daily life. Wearing protective products like incontinence pads or protective underwear can help you feel more confident and secure.

Wrapping Up

Urge urinary incontinence is more common than you might think. However, many people suffer in silence. By understanding the condition and implementing the tactics we’ve discussed, you can manage your symptoms effectively. You are not alone, and you don’t have to let incontinence control your life.

Don’t let incontinence stop you from living your best life. You have the power to take control and the right to live without fear of leakage. So, get started today and say goodbye to urge urinary incontinence!

Further Reading: How To Stop Waking Up At Night To Pee