See a Doctor

The first step to continence is to schedule a doctor’s appointment for an evaluation. Loss of bladder or bowel control isn’t easy to talk about, but there is no need to feel uncomfortable bringing the subject up with the doctor.

You can help the doctor make an accurate assessment and diagnosis by providing as much information as possible during the appointment. For a week prior to seeing the doctor, make note of the following:

1. Keep a urine bladder diary during the seven days prior to the doctor’s visit. Document the signs and patterns of voids including:
   • Time of day incontinence usually occurs
   • Behaviours or activities preceding incontinence
   • Location where loss of control happens most often – for example: toilet, hallway, bedroom, stairway, away from home, etc.
   • Amount of liquid consumed
2. Any special diets or changes in diet
3. Any prescription and over-the-counter medications
4. Any behaviours that you suspect may be a side effect of medications
5. Are incontinent episodes becoming progressively worse?

Find out about the most common forms of incontinence in men and women, as well as some available treatments that can make a difference. Simple changes in the daily routine can help you manage incontinence.

During the appointment, the doctor will most likely discuss symptoms and do a thorough physical exam. A diagnosis may be made or additional tests may be ordered. Once a diagnosis is made, the doctor will help you develop an appropriate treatment plan for you or refer you to other medical professionals who specialise in incontinence care. A treatment plan for your loved one may include:

• Pelvic Muscle Exercises – Simple toning exercises that can be learned quickly and done anywhere to strengthen the muscles that help control urine flow.
• Change in Diet – Learning which foods and eating habits may contribute to or aggravate incontinence.
• Bladder Training – Restoring a normal pattern of going to the toilet by slowly increasing the amount of time between trips to the bathroom.
• Biofeedback – Training that helps the incontinent person “learn their body’s signals” and recognise the sensations of the muscles that control the bladder.
• Changes in daily routine or modifications to the home environment – Removing barriers that hinder an incontinent person around the house and suggesting products that may improve mobility.
• Medication – Drug therapies to treat specific incontinence-related conditions.
• Surgery – Usually the last treatment option, surgery is sometimes recommended for certain types of incontinence after more conventional treatments are found to be unsatisfactory.