Having incontinence is more common than many people believe. Among men and women alike and of varying ages; we know that there are millions of us finding ways to accept it and find solutions to manage it.
Today the stigma of having a medical condition that causes incontinence has certainly eased up. There are ads, commercials and even an entire aisle in the stores with shelves full of product that remind us how common it is.
Some people are able to find relief with medical solutions, such as prescription medications and surgical procedures.
Know that these may help in individual cases. Others may have drips and leaks and even nighttime wetting regardless.
So accept who you are, your condition and find the solutions that suit you best.
I do recommend that you see a medical professional to make sure that you don’t have a more serious condition that needs a separate treatment. Your incontinence could be a side effect of that.
I have both BPH, benign prostatitis hyperplasia, a prostate condition and a lower back spinal injury that are the root causes to my urinary incontinence.
I had a surgery on my back and neck as well as take medications such as Flomax and Cialis to help control my BPH symptoms. However, I still experience leaks that follow after voiding my bladder, or even strong urges that sneak up quickly, as well as nighttime wetting.
My wife and I are in our early 60’s and still fairly fit who actively participate in outdoor activities, sports, hunting and travel, so don’t let your condition stop you from being you.
My overactive bladder (OAB) and my Urge incontinence still require that I wear protection such as pads or pull-up during the day and a diaper at night. This is regardless of my treatments.
So take the time to find what products work best for you.
You can keep it all to yourself or share with others of your condition. Family and good friends will be mindful and understand.
My wife doesn’t have incontinence, but understands convenience. Though infrequently, even she will wear one of my diapers on occasion when we’ve been out fishing, camping, or a long trip.
My tip to others would be this.
* Let your doctor know and anyone else who you think might need to know.
* Shop products that hold the amount of incontinence you experience. Many varying degrees of capacity are offered in pads, pull-ups, and adult diapers. Don’t go to light. Wet pants and bedding are a pain.
Like me, I need lighter protection during the day and full protection at bedtime.
* Suitable products are available online and discreetly delivered to your pharmacy or at home.
* Plan for it. Going on a long day adventure, shopping, drive ,air travel, the movies, etc.. wear the product.
* Use the product. This can be a tough one at times. Don’t inconvenience yourself and others by making the exit scene every time you have to go. The restroom isn’t always easily available. That’s why you wear the product, right?
* Talk with others that have incontinence. I have found both support and great tips on product by communicating with individuals on this website the NAFC National Association for Continence.
* Be mindful of other things that you do, eat or drink that adds to you condition.
* Stay hydrated. Water is necessary for your health regardless.
I love my coffee and occasional beer and carbonated beverages. When enjoying these beverages and when I over do it and aggravate my back, I can expect to have a higher level of wetting.
* Find clothing that you’re comfortable wearing along with protection. Consider ease of access to changing if necessary.
Most product is undetectable under your clothing, even a diaper.
* Be accepting of who you are and your incontinence, just as you would be respectful of others.
Plenty of support and help out there.
I hope this helps.
Best,
