Bloating, leaking and the frequent urge to go to the bathroom are often the side effects of urinary and fecal incontinence. The condition is more common in senior people and in women post delivery. Close monitoring of the diet and bathroom habits along with apt medication may be a solution for urinary and fecal incontinence.
Urinary Incontinence
The accidental leakage of urine is termed as urinary incontinence. The human bladder can hold up to 500 ml of urine. The urge to visit the bathroom may start when the bladder fills around 200 ml. When the bladder looses its control, the urine may leak causing extreme discomfort and embarrassment.
Overactive bladder, diabetes, pregnancy, childbirth, menopause are the different causes of urinary incontinence. Some neurological problems or sclerosis may also cause urinary incontinence. The causes may differ in men and women, but the common symptoms include:
- Frequent urge to urinate
- Leakage during physical activities – coughing, sneezing, lifting, or during sex
- Leakage before actually urinating
Urinary incontinence is often hard to discuss and may cause extreme distress. It can be treated with appropriate medication and frequent doctor consultation. Visiting the bathroom in the right time, practicing healthy diet, exercising, limiting water and high-caffeine liquids may help. Further, carrying a spare dress and disposable undergarments or pads may assist in avoiding embarrassment.
Fecal Incontinence
The accidental leakage of bowels is termed as fecal incontinence. It is caused due to the damage to the anal sphincter muscles and nerves. Loss of storage capacity, diarrhea, pelvic floor dysfunction or diabetes may also cause fecal incontinence. Constipation, muscle damage, nerve damage result in the condition.
Consult your doctor if you notice extreme conditions and get help. In addition, here are some habits to avoid fecal incontinence:
- Eating more fiber – Fruits, vegetables, oats are rich in fiber and try to get around 20 to 30 mg of fiber per day
- Avoiding high-caffeine beverages – Coffee, tea, coke, pepsi
- Practicing healthy bowel habits – Time it early in the morning and once or twice per day as per your body
- Observing the bowel movements – Notice the changes and urges and do not postpone
Further, proper diet, exercise, and appropriate medicines help treat fecal incontinence.
Self monitoring and awareness is a must to treat urinary and fecal incontinence. Getting the help in right time and being open with the doctor help addressing the condition.