Loss of bladder control, often referred to as urinary incontinence, can have many causes. Although urinary incontinence occurs more frequently in the elderly, it can occur at any age. Women suffer urinary incontinence more often than men.

Types

Stress incontinence occurs during laughing, coughing, sneezing, or exercise. Urge incontinence is characterized by a sudden need to urinate and immediate involuntary urination. Overflow incontinence concerns situations in which the bladder is not able to empty completely.

Causes of Temporary Incontinence

Temporary incontinence can be caused by certain medications, bed rest, pregnancy, weight gain, urinary tract infections or mental confusion.

Causes of Long-Term Incontinence

Long-term incontinence can be caused by depression, bladder cancer, neurological conditions, structural problems of the urinary tract, spinal injury or bladder spasms.

Treatment

Bladder retraining, or urinating on a schedule, can help manage incontinence. Kegel exercises may also help. There are many products that can help manage leakage.

Diagnostic Tests

Your doctor may perform a variety of diagnostic tests, including urine cultures, urinalysis, cystoscopy and uroflow.

Warning

Seek immediate medical attention if sudden urinary incontinence is accompanied by problems walking or talking, sudden weakness or tingling in an arm or leg, vision loss or mental confusion.

Source:

Medline Plus: Urinary Incontinence

AUGS Foundation: Bladder Control Problems