A Guide to Overflow Incontinence: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
Overflow incontinence is a type of urinary incontinence where the bladder doesn't fully empty itself and constantly leaks urine. This can happen due to a blockage or an inability of the bladder to contract and empty properly. It can also occur due to neurological damage or certain medications.
In this guide, we will discuss the symptoms, causes, and treatment options available for overflow incontinence.
What Are the Symptoms of Overflow Incontinence?
The symptoms of overflow incontinence can include:
- Constantly leaking urine
- Difficulty starting to urinate
- Weak urine stream
- Frequent urination
- The feeling of fullness in the bladder
- Inability to completely empty the bladder
- Involuntary loss of urine, especially during physical activity or at night
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, then you should consider speaking with a healthcare professional to determine the cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan. It’s important to note that some people may only experience mild symptoms, while others don’t have any symptoms at all, and the severity of the symptoms can vary depending on the underlying cause of the condition.
Causes of Overflow Urinary Incontinence
Overflow urinary incontinence can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Obstruction: A blockage in the urinary tract, such as an enlarged prostate gland, can cause urine to back up and lead to overflow incontinence, especially in men.
- Nerve damage: Damage to the nerves that control the bladder can result in the inability to fully empty the bladder.
- Medications: Certain medications, such as those used to treat high blood pressure or depression, can interfere with the normal functioning of the bladder.
- Pelvic organ prolapse: A condition in which the pelvic organs, such as the bladder or uterus, descend from their normal position and press against the urethra, leading to urinary leakage.
- Diabetes: People with diabetes may experience nerve damage that affects the functioning of the bladder, which can indirectly cause overflow incontinence.
- Spinal cord injury: Damage to the spinal cord can affect the nerves that control the bladder.
- Constipation: Constipation can also contribute to overflow incontinence by putting pressure on the bladder and obstructing the urinary flow.
Overflow Incontinence Treatment
The treatment of overflow incontinence depends on the underlying cause of the condition. Some common treatment options include:
- Catheterisation: For people with an obstruction, a catheter may be inserted to help empty the bladder.
- Surgery: In cases where there is an obstruction or anatomical abnormality, surgery may be required to correct the problem.
- Medications: Medications such as alpha-blockers, 5-alpha reductase inhibitors, cholinergic drugs, or Botox injections may be used to help treat overflow incontinence.
- Lifestyle changes: Avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods, and practising bladder training exercises can help manage symptoms.
- Pelvic floor exercises: These exercises, also known as Kegels, can help strengthen the muscles that control urination.
- Functional incontinence management: If the cause of incontinence is due to physical or cognitive limitations that make it difficult to get to the bathroom in time, then lifestyle changes and assistive devices to help manage the condition can be employed.
Struggling to adapt to overflow incontinence? We can help
Overflow incontinence can be a challenging condition to live with, but The Incontinence Shop stocks a wide range of discreet products that can help. From light insert pads to pull-up pants, washable bedding and wipes, we’ve got an option that will lessen the burden of living with overflow incontinence and allow you to go about your daily routine as normal.
For more information on any of our products designed to help with overflow incontinence, get in touch with our expert team today for sympathetic, confidential advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an example of overflow incontinence?
An example of overflow incontinence is when a person constantly leaks urine, even after going to the bathroom. This may happen because the bladder is not fully emptying itself, leading to a buildup of urine that eventually overflows. The leaking can be constant or intermittent and may occur even when the person does not feel the urge to urinate. It can be caused by factors such as an enlarged prostate gland, nerve damage, or pelvic organ prolapse.
Is overflow incontinence bad?
Overflow incontinence can have a significant impact on a person's quality of life and can be a cause of embarrassment and discomfort. It can also increase the risk of skin irritation and urinary tract infections. In addition, if left untreated, it can lead to complications such as bladder stones and kidney damage. Therefore, it is important to seek medical attention if you’re experiencing symptoms of overflow incontinence. With proper treatment and management, many people with overflow incontinence are able to effectively manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
What medication is used for overflow incontinence?
Medications used for overflow incontinence depend on the underlying cause of the condition. Some medications that may be prescribed include alpha-blockers and 5-alpha reductase inhibitors for men with an enlarged prostate gland, cholinergic drugs to help stimulate the bladder to contract, and Botox injections to paralyse the bladder muscles and reduce urinary leakage. Medication should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional, as it can have side effects and interactions with other medications.
