Transient Incontinence & its Causes

What is Transient Incontinence?

All types of incontinence (defined as the involuntary loss of urine) are caused by an underlying condition, be that a weakened pelvic floor muscle, mobility or neurological issue.

In certain instances, like Parkinson’s disease as an example, the underlying condition is ongoing which means any associated incontinence will also continue.

Transient Incontinence refers to continence issues that can and do resolve when the condition that’s causing it heals or is cured.

What conditions cause Transient Incontinence?

• A weakened pelvic floor muscle. If you’re able to exercise and strengthen the muscle then you will be able to regain control
• Low estrogen, often associated with menopause
• Urinary Tract Infections, also called UTIs
• Constipation. Straining can add stress and weaken the pelvic floor muscle. In addition, compacted stools can put pressure on the bladder, impeding the sensation and message that it’s full and should be emptied. In other cases, compacted stools may inhibit the bladder’s ability to fully empty, leading to retention. Both can cause overflow incontinence
• Being pregnant and giving birth. Both add stress to the pelvic floor muscle.
• Stroke. When the messages between the brain and bladder are compromised. Depending on the degree of recovery, this may or may not resolve.
• Depression. Still to be conclusive, but evidence suggests a correlation between these two conditions. It was originally thought that depression was the symptom of persistent incontinence, but scientists are now hypothesising that these two conditions share a common neurochemical development – so may be more intertwined than initially thought. You can read more about it in this Springer Link paper
• Certain medications, like diuretics, blood pressure medication, anti-depressants and sleeping pills
• Pelvic surgery

What to do about Transient Incontinence

The first thing you must do is consult with your doctor. A professional needs to diagnose the cause which will determine the best remedy.

In some instances, like stroke, childbirth and surgery, incontinence may improve on its own as you recover. However, your doctor may recommend exercises or other treatments to expedite the recovery, so it’s still best to check.

If the issue is medication, sometimes the type of drug or dose can be adjusted.

Infections such as a are unlikely to resolve on their own. In fact, left untreated, the responsible bacteria can travel up the urethra to the bladder and on to the kidneys, so it’s essential to get on top of it quickly.

Following healthy bladder habits is also recommended, both while you have incontinence and when symptoms are no longer present – to help keep them at bay. These include:

• Drinking plenty of water
• Avoid food and drinks that have the potential to irritate your bladder
• Maintaining weight within a healthy range
• Avoiding constipation
• Quitting smoking
• Ensure your pelvic floor muscle stays strong with exercise

Products to use while your Transient Incontinence is being resolved

Using a suitably absorbent product will allow you to get on with life until your incontinence is resolved.

TENA’s range of products are specifically designed to handle the thinner, faster flow of a weak bladder, and have odour control. There are products to manage just a few drops through to discreetly absorbing the contents of a full bladder.

To find the product best suited to your needs, try our Product Finder tool and take advantage of our Free Samples offer.

Sources:
https://www.sharecare.com/health/urinary-incontinence/what-causes-transient-incontinence
https://www.everydayhealth.com/incontinence/urinary-incontinence-and-depression-3478.aspx
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s003450100227
https://www.sharecare.com/health/urinary-incontinence/pelvic-surgery-contribute-urinary-incontinence

Asaleo Care makes no warranties or representations regarding the completeness or accuracy of the information. This information should be used only as a guide and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional, medical or other health professional advice.