Incontinence is the involuntary loss of urine or feces (solid waste matter) from the body. An incontinent person lacks control of the bladder or bowels. Incontinence may result from nerve and muscle changes due to aging or from various other causes. It can cause social embarrassment, loss of self-esteem, and withdrawal from daily activities.
Urinary incontinence is often caused by loss of muscle support to the bladder and urethra (urinary canal). In women, this loss may stem from childbirth, which weakens the pelvic muscles. Actions that involve contractions of the abdominal muscles–such as coughing, sneezing, lifting, or standing up–put pressure on the bladder and urethra, resulting in leakage of urine. Urinary incontinence also may be caused by weakening of the urethral sphincter–the ring of muscles in the urethra that controls the flow of urine. A weakened or damaged sphincter may fail to close completely, causing urine loss. This type of incontinence may occur even if the person is sitting or standing still.
In men, urinary incontinence often occurs when enlargement of the prostate gland obstructs the flow of urine. The bladder fails to empty completely, overfills, then leaks. In addition, surgery for treatment of prostate disorders may damage the urethral sphincter or pelvic muscles and cause incontinence.
Fecal incontinence is most common in elderly people. It may be related to bowel problems, mental decline, or disorders, such as stroke and multiple sclerosis, that damage nerves.
Many people with incontinence wear special waterproof undergarments that help prevent leakage of urine or feces. Exercises called Kegel exercises can strengthen the pelvic muscles and reduce or prevent urinary incontinence. Various medications can improve function of the sphincter or the bladder muscle. In some types of urinary incontinence, surgery can improve or cure symptoms. Fecal incontinence is treated with diet, medication, or surgery.
