When you start to notice little bladder leaks, one of the first questions is "what can I do?" What can I do to get over it? What can I do to deal with it while it's here? Is there anything I can do to prevent bladder problems for the future? Your doctor is the first person you'll want to ask. And the last thing you want to do is let little bladder leaks get in the way of doing the things you love. So look for answers and find the course of action that will work best for you. We've highlighted some of the bladder control treatments and management ideas such as bladder retraining and bladder exercises that you might want to learn about.
Bladder Control Treatments
The good news is that many of the things contributing to little bladder leaks can be cured and all can be managed. Little bladder leaks may be a symptom of an underlying ailment that warrants medical attention, or simply a side effect of certain medications.
Your doctor will help you assess your situation and the numerous options that are available. Some of the treatments your doctor might suggest include:
Kegel Exercises. Your doctor might recommend that you learn to practice Kegel (or pelvic muscle) exercises, which were originally developed by Dr. Arnold Kegel to help women strengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor during pregnancy and after childbirth. Always consult with your doctor before starting any bladder control exercise program. For more information, click here.
Biofeedback. In addition to bladder control exercises such as Kegel exercises, your doctor may recommend biofeedback to help you identify and control the muscles located around the bladder opening. In a clinic or similar setting, small sensors are temporarily placed in contact with your body. As you practice contracting muscles around the bladder opening, the sensors give you a signal, usually an audible tone or movement on a visual display or graph, indicating when you have correctly contracted the right muscles. This helps maximize your Kegel exercises.
Bladder Retraining. Bladder retraining is effective in helping people successfully increase the amount of time between trips to the bathroom. For example, by reducing anxiety through a formal bathroom schedule tailored to your specific needs, bladder retraining can actually restore bladder control in certain instances. If your doctor suggests bladder retaining, a voiding diary, as well as a schedule of activities that normally make up your day, will be important in developing a successful program for you.
Medication. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe medication either alone, or in combination with behavioral treatment to help restore bladder control. Be aware that some medications may actually contribute to bladder control problems, so be sure your doctor knows about any prescription and over-the-counter drugs you're taking. All medications should be taken under the care of a physician.
Surgery. Your doctor may suggest surgery as a way to treat a physical condition contributing to your little bladder leaks. He/she will counsel you on the best treatment, including the advantages and risks.
Fortunately, increased awareness has helped promote a greater understanding of bladder control in today's society. Healthcare providers are helping people manage and treat little bladder leaks so they can go on and keep doing the things they have always enjoyed.
Managing Bladder Control
There are several steps you can take on your own to help manage your little bladder leaks. Here are just a few of them:
Diet. Drink lots of water. The amount of water and fluids you drink can help your bladder (plus it's good for your skin, too!) Be sure to drink plenty of fluids—at least 6-8 cups per day. By the way, limiting daily fluids can actually make little bladder leaks worse and lead to serious illness. So don't make the mistake of thinking less fluids are better.
There are some beverages you'll want to stay away from. Drinks with caffeine and alcohol can cause excessive urine production. And some acidic juices like grapefruit juice and tomatoes juice can irritate the bladder, so stay away from those.
What you eat can have an effect on bladder control. Be sure to eat plenty of vegetables and fiber. Staying regular is important since constipation can contribute to little bladder leaks.
Weight. Watching your weight can help, too. Even a few extra pounds can contribute to bladder control loss. Losing that weight can make a difference. A five to ten percent weight loss can help improve bladder control by reducing intra-abdominal pressure, another factor in bladder control. Now that's a great incentive to stick to a diet!
Keep Active. Little bladder leaks should not limit what you do. Taking steps to manage them with treatment options and the right bladder control products will help you stay involved and active — and most importantly, feel good about yourself.
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