Incontinence is most common in people over the age of 50.
Urinary incontinence affects many types of people at different stages of their lives. Incontinence is a loss of control over bladder function. According to Family Doctor.org, people over the age of 50 are most commonly affected by incontinence.There are many common causes of incontinence such as pregnancy, aging and menopause. Incontinence may also be caused by more serious conditions such as cancer or certain neurological disorders.
Temporary Incontinence
Certain conditions may cause temporary symptoms of incontinence. Many of the causes of the inability to hold urine on a temporary basis may be corrected with a change in diet or habits. According to Mayo Clinic.com, one common cause of this condition is the consumption of alcohol. Alcohol acts as a diuretic and can stimulate the bladder, which may cause a temporary increase in the urge to urinate. Other causes may include dehydration, overhydration, irritation of the bladder and the excessive consumption of caffeine. Taking certain medications such as blood pressure medication, heart medication and sedatives may also cause an increase in the urge to urinate.
Infection
Infections may cause symptoms of incontinence in some people. Incontinence is a common symptom in those that suffer from urinary tract infections. This type of infection affects the bladder and causes symptoms such as incontinence, foul smelling urine or a burning sensation or pain while urinating. A urinary tract infection may be present with no symptoms other than incontinence, making it important to seek the advice of a physician for proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Fortunately, most cases of urinary tract infections are easy to treat with a course of antibiotics.
Pregnancy/Hysterectomy
Pregnant women may have an increased risk of developing urinary incontinence because of the changes in the hormone levels during pregnancy. During pregnancy, a woman gains weight, which can cause an increase in pressure on the bladder. This can result in an increased urge to urinate. Women who deliver their babies vaginally may also develop incontinence due to a weakening of the muscles that control the bladder. After delivery, some women may develop a condition that causes the bladder, uterus, rectum or small bowel to be pushed to the floor of the pelvis. This is known as a prolapse and is a common cause of incontinence after pregnancy and childbirth. A hysterectomy may increase the risk of incontinence in women. This is because the uterus and the bladder are close to each other and removing the uterus can damage the muscles of the pelvic floor, which may result in difficulty controlling urine.
Cancer/Neurological Conditions
Serious medical conditions such as cancer may cause incontinence in some people. Patients who have radiation treatment or surgery for prostate cancer often suffer from incontinence. Bladder cancer is another type of cancer that may cause symptoms such as incontinence, burning upon urination, pelvic pain and bloody urine. People who suffer from neurological conditions may develop symptoms of incontinence. According to Mayo Clinic.com, these may include Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, brain tumors, spinal cord injuries and strokes. These conditions may cause a disruption in the nerves that control bladder function, making it difficult to control urination.
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