Incontinence, commonly known as urinary incontinence, is a health problem associated with bladder control in which the suffering individual has no control over their bladder movements.
In simple words, individuals who suffer from urinary incontinence aren’t able to hold in their pee and often find themselves leaking urine either when they sneeze, laugh too much, or get a sudden uncontrollable urge to use the washroom and aren’t able to reach it in time.
While many people think incontinence happens to one only in their old age, many people suffer from incontinence in their 30’s and are often too embarrassed to address this issue or even speak about it.
Incontinence is especially more common in women – women are twice as likely to suffer from it – and many people in their 40s begin to develop signs of incontinence.
What are the major issues associated with incontinence?
The major issue associated with incontinence isn’t the fact that individuals fail to reach a toilet in time – the most major issue in fact is that individuals are too embarrassed to talk about it.
While it is understandable that an adult wouldn’t want people to know they are likely to “pee in their pants” it is necessary that this discussion is made with their doctors and that they seek medical care and attention.
This is because ignoring incontinence and not treating it is likely to affect your physical and mental health both in the long run.
Another issue associated with incontinence is the decrease in physical activity.
Many individuals who suffer from incontinence try to limit their physical activities such as running, jogging, and swimming, and always try to stay in close proximity to a toilet.
Another fatigue associated with it is the constant need to change one’s bedding and clothes and washing themselves every time one let’s go.
Another problem associated with incontinence is the mental impact it has on people’s minds. People who suffer from incontinence often find themselves feeling ashamed and worthless with regard to their condition.
They often find it embarrassing to address their situation in a circle of friends and family fearing that they might be made fun of or teased. All of this can take a toll on one’s overall bodily health too.
What can individual suffering from incontinence do?
While speaking to your family about your problem can be a daunting task, a session with your doctor shouldn’t be postponed. There are a number of popular treatments and techniques available to help individuals suffering from it and incontinence products in Australia are widely known for their help in facilitating patients.
Other than this, society should try to minimize the stigma associated with incontinence. Many individuals are mocked at and made fun of due to their medical condition.
This bullying should stop at all costs and individuals need to be made comfortable in addressing their serious health concerns.
If you yourself suffer from incontinence or know someone who does, you should educate yourself and others about the problems associated with it, and about the need to destigmatize it in society.
