Impact of Incontinence on Your Life

Incontinence affects approximately 200 million people in the world, including 25 million Americans every year. This is the most common problem among seniors, but few older adults are willing to talk to their doctors about it. They may be embarrassed or think that this is just part of aging and they need to learn how to deal with it. Seniors who lose bladder control can become unhealthy and immobile without the help of medical professionals. Let’s look at the impact of incontinence on your life.

Impact of Incontinence on Your Life

Many physical and psychological effects come from dealing with incontinence privately. Rather than continuing down the dark hole of depression, it’s important to understand the impact of incontinence on your life so you can stay on top of and in control of your own life. Below, your trusted urologist in Los Angeles can help you gain a deeper understanding of incontinence and how to manage it.

The Physical Effects of Incontinence

Although many people view incontinence as something embarrassing, you might not be able to see the real impact it has on your life until you have experienced it. There are obvious problems like having to change your clothes and go to the toilet frequently. But incontinence can also impact your physical health. People with incontinence often develop skin infections from excessive moisture exposure. Incontinence dermatitis, also known as diaper rash, can be a frequent occurrence. Skin can also become infected easily if it comes in contact with bacteria from various waste products. Not to mention, it is increasingly uncomfortable to deal with having to go to the bathroom all the time. It can limit your ability to perform other everyday activities.

The Mental Health Effects of Incontinence

Research shows that incontinence sufferers are often reluctant to seek treatment. The individual’s beliefs and feelings regarding incontinence may vary depending on how they feel about it. You or your loved one may have negative thoughts about your condition, such as:

• It shouldn’t bother you
• Try to conceal it
• It is impossible to deny
• It is not something you want to discuss

These behaviors may make it difficult for you to accept and understand the state of your condition. This will make it more difficult for you to work with your specialist to achieve the best possible outcomes.

How to Manage the Impacts of Incontinence

Folks dealing with incontinence need to first talk to their doctor. Many home remedies and treatments are available to manage the condition, but further medical treatment may also need to supplement their at-home health routine. This will allow seniors to continue their daily activities. A senior can be referred to a specialist if they are suffering from anxiety or depression over a long period of time without improvement. To help yourself or other people with incontinence, you can partner with professionals in your area. Remember that this condition is not your fault, nor can you control what is happening. There are ways to get help and care for this condition in a shame-free space. All that is required is that you talk about it.

Speak Up About Your Incontinence Today

If you are feeling embarrassed, upset, or depressed about your incontinence situation, you are not alone. Your feelings are natural, and you’re going to get better. You can get the best of care at Comprehensive Urology when you schedule a personal consultation with an incontinence specialist in Los Angeles today. The impacts of incontinence can be huge on both your mental and physical health; the longer you go without treatment, the more your symptoms of incontinence will exacerbate. Start your treatment plan by picking up the phone and giving our experts a call ASAP!