MALE INCONTINENCE

Helping Solve Incontinence Symptoms in Men

MALE INCONTINENCE

MALE INCONTINENCE

Urinary incontinence is the accidental release of urine, leading to urine leaks. Both men and women are at greater risk for developing some degree of urinary incontinence as the muscles of the bladder and urinary sphincter weaken with age. There are three basic types of urinary incontinence: stress incontinence, urge incontinence, and overflow incontinence, and each type of incontinence has its own range of severity. Incontinence is not a disease; however, it is a symptom of another condition, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia and an enlarged prostate. If you experience urinary incontinence that affects your daily activities or is impacting your quality of life, schedule an appointment with Blue Ridge Urological today at (540) 508-8697.

CAUSES OF MALE INCONTINENCE:

If you have an enlarged prostate, it can be normal to experience some loss of bladder control. There are many causes of incontinence and it usually depends on which type of incontinence you have.

Male stress incontinence occurs when laughing, sneezing, coughing or sports activities puts pressure on the bladder. Removing the prostate gland can exacerbate stress urinary incontinence in men. Other factors can make stress incontinence worse including being overweight, chronic illness that causes coughing and smoker’s cough.

Occurs when the muscles of the bladder contract or squeeze the urine past the sphincter at the wrong time. Patients may experience an urgent need to urinate and have trouble making it to the bathroom in time. This may be caused by the nerves controlling the urinary system or bladder irritation due to inflammation, infection, bladder stones, a blockage or prostate enlargement.

This form of incontinence most often occurs when there is a blockage in the urethra that keeps the bladder from being able to empty completely. The blockage may be a result of an enlarged prostate. Overflow incontinence may also be the result of weak bladder or sphincter muscles. Patients can experience a constant need to urinate without producing much urine.

  • Chronic cough as with smoking or lung disease
  • Bladder infections
  • Weak pelvic floor muscles
  • Weak sphincter muscle
  • Obstruction in the urinary tract
  • Enlarged prostate
  • Excess alcohol consumption

DIAGNOSING MALE INCONTINENCE

If you are struggling with the loss of bladder control, you will find Blue Ridge Urological offers a wide range of testing options to determine the cause of your urinary leakage so that we can implement the best course of treatment for you. Your urologist will perform a physical examination, record your medical history to include any medications that you are currently taking, and possibly order testing.

Male incontinence testing may include:

  • Physical examination

  • Urine tests

  • Blood tests

  • Ultrasound

  • Urodynamic tests

Depending on the results of your tests, your doctor will be able to determine the most effective treatment plan starting with the most conservative options.

RISK FACTORS FOR DEVELOPING MALE INCONTINENCE

Patients who have had surgery for prostate cancer or who have prostate enlargement are at a greater risk for developing urinary incontinence.

Other factors that increase the risk of UI include:

  • Age

  • Neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, multiple sclerosis

  • Obesity

  • Sedentary lifestyle

TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR MALE INCONTINENCE

Urinary incontinence is a treatable urinary system condition. When loss of bladder control starts to affect the quality of your life or keeps you from performing your daily activities, it is time to see a doctor. Blue Ridge Urological specializes in treating all aspects of the urinary tract and can recommend some lifestyle modifications and other therapies that can treat male incontinence and improve bladder function.

Your doctor may choose to begin treating urinary incontinence conservatively with lifestyle modifications. There are certain modifications including fluid management, bladder training and pelvic floor muscle strengthening exercises that you can incorporate into your daily activities that may improve the symptoms of urinary incontinence. Some medications can be prescribed to help calm overactive bladder muscles, increase the amount of urine the bladder can hold, reduce urine leakage, and encourage the complete emptying of the bladder.

For severe cases of urinary incontinence, there are minimally invasive surgical options that may be considered. If incontinence is caused by an enlarged prostate, your urologist may want to remove some or all of the prostate to alleviate the pressure on the urethra so that the bladder can empty. A sling procedure is used to create support around the neck of the bladder, which will help keep it closed under the physical stress of coughing, sneezing, laughing and running.

Urinary incontinence can impact your daily life as well as the normal activities you enjoy. Blue Ridge Urological understands the importance of diagnosing and treating urinary incontinence so you get back to doing what you love with confidence. If you have urinary incontinence or would like to learn more about how urinary incontinence is treated, call Blue Ridge Urological today at (540) 508-8697.

FAQ

What are the main causes of male urinary incontinence?

Male urinary incontinence can result from various factors, including medical conditions, anatomical changes, and lifestyle choices. Common causes include prostate surgery, particularly prostatectomy for cancer treatment, which can damage the urethral sphincter. Other contributing factors include benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), neurological disorders (such as Parkinsons disease or multiple sclerosis), urinary tract infections, and certain medications that affect bladder control. Lifestyle factors such as obesity and lack of physical activity can also increase the risk of developing incontinence.

How is male incontinence diagnosed?

Diagnosing male incontinence typically begins with a thorough medical history and physical examination. Your healthcare provider may ask about your symptoms, urinary habits, and any underlying health conditions. Additional tests may include a urinalysis to check for infections or blood in the urine, urodynamic studies to assess bladder function, and cystoscopy to visualize the urethra and bladder. These evaluations help determine the type of incontinence and guide appropriate treatment options.

What treatment options are available for male incontinence?

Treatment for male incontinence varies based on its type and severity. Options may include behavioral therapies such as bladder training and pelvic floor exercises (Kegel exercises) to strengthen the muscles that control urination. Medications like anticholinergics can help relax the bladder muscle for those with urge incontinence. For more severe cases, surgical options such as artificial urinary sphincters or slings may be recommended to provide better control over urination. Your healthcare provider will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs.

Can lifestyle changes help manage male incontinence?

Yes, making certain lifestyle modifications can significantly improve symptoms of male incontinence. Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise can reduce pressure on the bladder. Staying well-hydrated while avoiding bladder irritants such as caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods can also help manage symptoms. Additionally, establishing a regular bathroom schedule and practicing pelvic floor exercises can strengthen the muscles involved in urination, leading to better control.

Is male urinary incontinence a normal part of aging?

While urinary incontinence is more common among older men, it is not considered a normal part of aging. Many men experience incontinence due to treatable underlying conditions rather than age alone. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of urinary incontinence, it is important to seek medical advice. Early intervention can lead to effective management and improved quality of life.

What causes incontinence in men?

Incontinence in men can be caused by several factors, including prostate issues such as an enlarged prostate or prostate surgery, which can disrupt normal bladder function. Additionally, age-related weakening of the bladder muscles or certain medications can contribute to the loss of bladder control in men.

How do you fix male incontinence?

Male incontinence can be treated through various methods depending on the underlying cause. Pelvic floor exercises help strengthen the muscles that control urination and are often recommended as a first-line treatment. In more severe cases, medications, minimally invasive procedures, or surgical options may be necessary to restore bladder control.

What age does incontinence affect most men?

Incontinence can affect men at any age, but it is most common in older men, particularly those over the age of 60. The likelihood of experiencing incontinence increases with age due to factors such as prostate enlargement, weakened pelvic muscles, and other age-related conditions. However, younger men can also experience incontinence due to various causes like injury, neurological disorders, or certain surgeries.

Does drinking more water help with bladder leakage?

Drinking more water can help manage bladder leakage in some cases, but it depends on the individuals situation. Staying well-hydrated prevents the bladder from becoming irritated by concentrated urine, which can reduce urgency and frequency. However, drinking excessive amounts of water can also increase the need to urinate, potentially worsening symptoms in those with severe leakage.

Is male incontinence painful?

Male incontinence is not typically painful on its own, but it can be associated with discomfort depending on the underlying cause. For example, if incontinence is due to a urinary tract infection or an enlarged prostate, there may be accompanying pain or discomfort.

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