If you are dealing with some degree of urinary incontinence, you're not alone as this is a common issue. At Greater Austin Urology in Austin, TX, Dr. Lucas Jacomides helps patients successfully cope with their urinary incontinence symptoms so they feel better and have more active lifestyles.
Why Urinary Incontinence occurs
There are a variety of causes. Some urinary incontinence is age-related. For women, menopause weakens the pelvic floor muscles that provide support for the bladder, uterus, and vagina. This reduced support can lead to stress incontinence with lifting, sneezing, coughing, and even laughing.
Overactive bladder, or OAB, affects both men and women. People with this nerve-related urological condition have frequent episodes of urgency and constantly scope out public venues for the nearest restrooms. Also, they wake several times a night needing to urinate.
Some lifestyle habits contribute to urinary incontinence and urgency. These habits include:
- Poor control of body weight
- Excessive alcohol and caffeine intake
- Smoking
- Certain prescription medications
Treating urinary incontinence
Dr. Jacomides knows that urinary incontinence is a private and sensitive issue. However, he assures his patients that incontinence is manageable.
A common strategy is a program of easy Kegel exercises. Performed in the privacy of your own home three times a day, Kegel exercises involve simple contraction and relaxation of pelvic floor muscles. Over time, the muscles become stronger and give better support to the bladder.
Other interventions include:
- Medication
- Diet management
- Treatment of UTIs with antibiotics
- Pelvic floor exercises
- Surgery
Find out more
If you are dealing with urinary incontinence, the professional team at Greater Austin Urology in Austin, TX can help. Call today for a consultation with Dr. Jacomides: (512) 540-3937.