Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI)

Overview

Stress urinary incontinence is a prevalent and long-lasting (chronic) condition that primarily affects women but can also occur in men. Although it can develop at any stage in life, the likelihood increases with age.

Prevalence in Women

One in three women over 40 experiences stress urinary incontinence, often resulting from weakened or damaged pelvic floor muscles. These muscles, which help control urinary flow, can deteriorate due to factors like pregnancy, childbirth, or ageing.

Prevalence in Men

In men, the condition may be linked to prostate cancer treatments or pelvic nerve damage.

Thankfully, there are numerous ways to manage stress urinary incontinence, ranging from lifestyle adjustments and muscle-strengthening exercises to bladder training and surgical interventions.

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Symptoms of Stress Urinary Incontinence

The primary symptom of stress urinary incontinence is involuntary urine leakage during specific activities, including:

• Sneezing, coughing, or laughing.
• Physical exertion such as exercise.
• Lifting heavy objects.
• Standing up.
• Engaging in sexual activity.

If you're worried about these symptoms, it's crucial to consult your doctor.

Diagnosis and Testing

To diagnose stress urinary incontinence, your doctor may:

Review Symptoms

You'll be asked about your symptoms, their frequency, and their triggers. Keeping a diary for a week—documenting episodes of urine leakage, your fluid intake, and urination frequency—can help.

Test for Infections

You may be tested for urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Physical Examination

The doctor may examine your pelvic area, and for men, the prostate gland is checked. ** Additional diagnostic tests may include:**

• Ultrasound Scan: Ensures your bladder is emptying completely.
• Cystoscopy: Examines your bladder and urinary system for abnormalities.
• Urodynamic Tests: Evaluate urine flow and bladder capacity.
• X-Ray with Dye Contrast: Tracks urine flow through the bladder and kidneys.

If needed, you may be referred to a urologist or a continence specialist for further evaluation.

Causes of stress urinary incontinence

Common causes include:

• Childbirth: The more pregnancies you've had, the greater the risk.
• Pregnancy or Obesity: Extra abdominal weight increases pressure on the bladder.
• Ageing: Weakens pelvic floor muscles.
• Hysterectomy or Prostate Surgery: Removal of the womb in women or prostate gland in men can lead to stress incontinence.
• Trauma or Damage: Injuries to the urethra may contribute.
• Prolapse: Occurs when the bladder presses against vaginal walls, leading to incontinence.

Treatment options for stress urinary incontinence

Stress urinary incontinence can often be managed through lifestyle changes and medical interventions.

Non-Surgical Treatments:

• Pelvic Floor Exercises: Strengthen muscles controlling urine flow.
• Weight Loss: Reduces abdominal pressure on the bladder.
• Limit Certain Fluids: Reduce intake of caffeine, alcohol, and other bladder irritants.
• Quit Smoking: Minimises coughing, which can trigger leakage.
• Urethral or Vaginal Devices: Special inserts can prevent leakage during activities.
• Pads and Protective Pants: Absorb urine leaks discreetly.

Surgical Options (if non-surgical methods don't work):

• Prolapse repair: corrects bladder displacement into the vaginal walls.
• Bladder support surgery: Provides additional structure for the bladder.
• Pelvic floor muscle strengthening: Improves muscle tone.
• Bladder enlargement: Increases capacity to reduce overflow issues.

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If You're Concerned:

Book an appointment with a medical professional to discuss your symptoms and potential treatments. Early intervention can improve your quality of life significantly. Our medical professionals at Medical and Dental Clinic London will be sure to attend to your health needs and provide the needed care.

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