Surefire Ways Aging Women Can Overcome Incontinence
Bladder health is a significant concern for aging women as childbirth and menopausal changes weaken the muscles. Many women encounter incontinence after stepping into their sixties. The worst thing about incontinence is that it is more than a medical problem. It can affect your self-esteem, confidence, and mental well-being. Leaks can happen anytime, and they can be traumatic when you encounter them in public. Fortunately, the problem is easy to address, provided you are aware and seek help sooner than later. Here are a few surefire ways aging women can overcome incontinence.
Consider it a medical issue
Women often suffer in silence because they feel hesitant about discussing urine leakage. The first step to dealing with incontinence is to consider it a medical issue instead of an intentional choice. After all, no one wants to leak urine intentionally. See a doctor to get a diagnosis and find the underlying cause of the problem. The causes range from childbirth to infection, the onset of menopause, obesity, constipation, and medical conditions such as diabetes and multiple sclerosis. Knowing the exact reason enables you to find the solution.
Manage your diet and fluid intake
Another tip to address age-related incontinence is to manage your diet and fluid intake. Begin by identifying your dietary triggers because spicy foods, milk, tea, honey, and soda can act as bladder irritants, so you must ditch the troublemakers. Some medications may cause incontinence. Checking with your doctor about the possibility is important. Also, manage your fluid intake by avoiding water and other drinks after late evening and while traveling. But you must focus on good hydration at all times.
Invest in incontinence care products
Comfort and hygiene are crucial aspects of dealing with incontinence. You can invest in products like reusable incontinence underwear to stay dry and prevent leakage risks during outings and in bed. Cleaning your skin is equally vital because leaving it wet can cause irritation and infection. Ensure proper drying and apply a soothing cream or petroleum jelly on your skin to keep it nourished.
Strengthen your bladder muscles
Weak bladder muscles are common for women as they bear the brunt of pregnancies and childbirths during their lifetimes. But you can keep them from causing incontinence with Kegels exercises. These exercises can strengthen the bladder muscles to regulate urination. You can seek expert advice to learn how to contract the right muscles. Exercising daily can set you up for a leakage-free lifestyle.
Master bladder management
Incontinence is easy to manage when there is no underlying medical condition. A little practice can help you master bladder management and prevent leakage accidents. You can schedule toilet trips and gradually increase the gaps between them until you can hold them long enough. The practice requires consistency and regularity, but it is worthwhile because it enables you to control your bladder in the long run.
Incontinence is a normal part of aging, so you should take it in a stride. Besides shedding your inhibition, look for long-term solutions to regain control over your bladder and life. These tips can help you overcome your woes and make the most of your golden years.
