Incontinence Treatments

Many seniors with incontinence and their caregiver are afraid to seek treatment, for incontinence. Many people mistakenly assume that surgery is the only permanent option, to treat incontinence. However, there are many other treatment options that need to be considered, before surgery or if surgery is not an option (usually due to the health status of the senior). While there is no 100% cure for incontinence, these treatment options have been shown to be highly successful. Here are some of the treatment options, for incontinence-

• Medication- For some types of incontinence a bladder relaxing agent can be very beneficial. There are several different drugs that fall into this category. However, it should be noted that there are side effects, and some patients do not tolerate them well. In addition, it should be noted that there are varying success rates, with these medications. Caregivers should be aware that there are increased risk, for elderly patients, since these drugs have been linked to confusion, blurry vision and even falling.
  
• Electrical stimulation- Many types of incontinence have been linked with a nerve signal problem, so if the patient is suffering from this type of incontinence, then electrical stimulation may be helpful as a treatment. This procedure is typically done in the doctor’s office. The procedure involves inserting a small needle near the ankle. This is then attached to a device that sends electrical impulses to nerves in the pelvis that communicate with the bladder. It is important to understand that these sessions last about 30 minutes, and are repeated weekly or biweekly for several months. While at first, this procedure elicited skepticism, studies have shown that this process actually produces a significant reduction in incontinence symptoms. This includes both the frequency and urgency that is found with incontinence. There are other newer but more invasive nerve therapies that can be considered as well. One of the most common is the procedure that places a pacemaker-type stimulator near the urethra and bladder, or a sterile probe in the vagina. These therapies are usually done in conjunction with biofeedback.
• Weight therapies- This is a process that is done with women who are suffering with incontinence. This procedure helps to strengthen the muscles that are found on the floor of the pelvic area. These are internal weights (cone shaped), that are inserted into the vagina. This is mostly used in the treatment of female stress incontinence. These weights are referred to as vaginal cones, vaginal weights or Kegal weights. They usually in sets of five and range in weight from a half an ounce to three ounces. The weights are worn for about 30 days before they are changed out for the next heavier weight. A doctor or physical therapist can help guide the process, however, it should be noted that this is therapy that takes some time to take effect. During the treatment there will be some difficulties and abnormal conditions. It is better to be ready to use some incontinence products which can help in going through and managing daily activities.

• Most common products that are available in adult incontinence websites and stores are adult diapers, underwear, pull ups, bed pads etc. Best fit size is the key for good protection and also to make sure there is not leakage.