Incontinence: There is Help Available

Incontinence (loss of bladder or bowel control) is a symptom—not a disease in itself. A broad range of conditions and disorders can cause incontinence, including birth defects, pelvic surgery, injuries to the pelvic region or to the spinal cord, neurological diseases, multiple sclerosis, poliomyelitis, infection, and degenerative changes associated with aging. It can also occur as the result of pregnancy or childbirth.

According to the Clinical Practice Guidelines on Urinary Incontinence in Adults, 13 million Americans are incontinent – 85% of them are women. It is estimated that one in four women ages 30-59 have experienced an episode of incontinence. It occurs in children and young adults, but the largest number affected is the elderly. Fifty percent or more of elderly persons living at home or in long-term care facilities are incontinent. Sufferers may experience emotional as well as physical discomfort. Many people affected by loss of bladder or bowel control isolate themselves for fear of ridicule and lose self-esteem.

Underdiagnosed & Underreported
In March of 1992, the US Department of Health and Human Service issued a Clinical Practice Guideline that indicated the prevalence of urinary incontinence (UI) is widely underdiagnosed and underreported. One reason is that individuals are often too ashamed or embarrassed to seek professional help. The panel found evidence that the treatment of UI can improve or cure most patients. They concluded that surgery, except in very specific cases, should be considered only after behavioral and pharmacological interventions have been tried. They also concluded that vigorous efforts should be made to educate the professional and lay public. The PFD (Pelvic Floor Dysfunction) Program was begun over four years ago at Whidbey General Hospital in response to this guideline to help men and women who are experiencing symptoms of incontinence and/or pelvic pain.

See Your Health Professional First
People who suffer from incontinence may feel that their doctor doesn’t understand what they’re going through. Recently, however, physicians have learned much more about the diagnosis and treatment of incontinence. In fact, a growing number of urologists, gynecologists, and doctors now work with physical therapists and nurse specialists to develop surgical and non-surgical techniques for treating incontinence. Many pharmaceutical manufacturers have created new drugs to help treat incontinence.

Treatment Options
Approximately 80% of those affected by urinary incontinence can be cured or improved. Because incontinence is a symptom and not a disease, the method to treatment depends on diagnostic results. Sometimes simple changes in diet or the elimination of medications such as diuretics can cure incontinence. Despite the high success rates in treating incontinence, only 1 out of 12 people affected seeks help. After considering your specific case, a qualified specialist can recommend one of the many types of treatments that might be appropriate for you. No matter how serious or embarrassing the problem might seem, incontinence is a medical problem that can be helped. Help is available—see a qualified specialist or contact Michelle Beesley, RN, CETN, at WGH Rehabilitation Services at 678-7619.