When to See A Doctor for Incontinence Problems in Adults?

Incontinence is the involuntary passing of urine or bowel movement that can occur in both men and women at any age. It is more commonly observed among women and older people, with 30 percent elderly women and 15 percent of elderly men being affected by such a problem. However, incontinence is not a normal part of aging. It may be sudden and temporary due to a variety of reasons. So, it is necessary to understand when to seek medical advice for your incontinence problem.

Why and When to See A Doctor?

If you are one among those people who experience bladder control problems or complications related to elderly incontinence, don’t let embarrassment keep you from seeking the help of a professional. After all, it is necessary to determine the type of incontinence problem that you are encountering so that your physician can determine the right course of action.

But not all incontinence cases demand medical attention. Urinating frequently or leaking urine and experiencing other associated symptoms of urinary incontinence are not always the impact of childbirth or the natural cause of aging. So, why should you seek professional advice, and how do you know when to seek medical attention?

Why Seek Medical Attention for Your Incontinence Problem?

Incontinence problems can lead to a variety of complications such as –

• Skin problems like skin infections, sores, and rashes that can develop from constantly wet skin.
• Incontinence can increase the risk of repeated urinary tract infection.
• It can also have a negative impact on your social, work, and personal relationship.

What Type of Doctor to Consult for Your Urinary Incontinence Problem?

Different medical conditions for your urinary incontinence problem would require seeking medical advice from different professionals depending on the cause of such occurrence. You can consult the following medical professionals –

• Urologist for having an extensive training of the urinary tract.
• OB/GYN to concentrate on diseases and conditions of the female reproductive system, as well as taking proper care of pregnant women from conception to post-delivery.
• Urogynecologist for receiving specialized training of the urinary system in females, including their pelvic condition.
• Internal Medicine doctors and family practice physicians for treating different kinds of conditions and diseases, including urinary incontinence.

However, if you are not sure of your underlying cause of such an occurrence, you can have a general physician suggest the right course of action for you.

How Can the Doctor Help with Your Incontinence Problem?

The doctor will first have a thorough analysis of the symptoms and medical history of the person. They then conduct necessary physical examination to find out the underlying cause behind such occurrences. Finding details about various circumstances such as urine loss, including the amount, time of the day, and any other precipitating factors like sneezing, straining, or coughing, will help him to determine the future course of treatment.

Whether the appropriate solutions are achieved through behavioral and lifestyle changes, surgery, medication, or a combination of such treatment, talking with your physician openly and honestly will help you to get on the right track.