World Diabetes Day!

Sunday November 14th is World Diabetes Day. In this article we are going to cover diabetes and the links it has to incontinence.

Diabetes and incontinence

Although diabetes does not cause incontinence it can add increased risk factors that can lead to one developing incontinence symptoms.

UTI’s (urinary tract infections) have been known to cause incontinence symptoms. When your body has an autoimmune disease or a weakened immune system, this increases your risk of contracting a UTI.

There are a few different types of incontinence, one being transient incontinence. This form of incontinence is caused by certain medications or conditions, most being temporary. Some diabetes medications have been linked to possible bowel incontinence.

Stress incontinence can often impact those with diabetes as a result of a link to obesity. Obesity can cause pressure on the bladder causing an involuntary release of urine in some individuals.

Nerve damage is a side effect of diabetes. Both the bowel and bladder contain many nerves, all which need to function correctly in order for a proper urine and bowel movement to occur. When any damage has occurred to the nerves surrounding your bladder and bowel, it can cause overflow and functional incontinence of various severity.

There are many other contributing factors that could account for incontinence including:

• Age. Being older in age does increase your chances of suffering from incontinence issues. Studies have shown that Fifty percent or more of elderly persons suffer from incontinence on some level.
• Sex. Females are more likely to have incontinence (childbirth). Studies have also shown that approximately 13 million Americans are incontinent; 85 percent of those are women.
• High Blood Sugar Levels. Can cause increased thirst and in result an increased frequency of urination.
• Other health conditions. Various diseases or disorders can cause incontinence such as multiple sclerosis or cerebral palsy.

With there being a wide range of reasons as to why people suffer from incontinence it is always best to check with your medical professional so they can help point to the possible causes.

How to treat incontinence

Finding the cause of your incontinence will play a vital role in how you can treat it.

All forms of treatments should be discussed with your healthcare professional beforehand.
Some effective ways are:

• Kegel exercises - pelvic floor exercises are used to tighten the pelvic floor muscles which can help control the bladder.
• Diet - being cautious of food and drinks that may cause your bowels or bladder to become irritated.
• Bladder training - keeping a schedule of when to urinate can be beneficial.
• Sugar - Sugar intake is a very important part of living with diabetes. Keeping your sugar level at a safe range on the advice of your doctor is important. Nerve damage can be avoided when the sugar levels of a person with diabetes is maintained accurately and safely.

Products for managing incontinence

With a wide range of premium products for minor to severe incontinence, you will be sure to find what you need. Our caring and friendly staff are readily available to help with any product questions, suggestions or sizing inquiries you may have. We can be contacted Monday to Friday 8:30 am - 5:00 ET at 1-855-745-1008 or via our contact us page.

There are many discreet and high quality products at Incontrol Diapers, we offer a helpful product guide which we recommend checking out our having available before contacting our staff.