Incontinence
Incontinence refers to the involuntary loss of control over bladder or bowel function, leading to the unintentional release of urine or feces. It can be a distressing and often embarrassing condition, impacting both men and women of all ages. Incontinence can range from occasional minor leaks to complete loss of bladder or bowel control.
Why does Incontinence occur?
Incontinence can occur for various reasons, often depending on the type of incontinence and the underlying cause. Here are some of the most common causes:
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Muscle Weakness or Damage: Weakness in the pelvic floor muscles, often due to childbirth, surgery, or aging, can lead to stress incontinence, where physical activities such as coughing or exercising cause leaks. Damage to Sphincter muscles which controls the release of urine and feces, perhaps from injury or surgery, can also be a reason for incontinence.
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Nerve Damage: Some Neurological Disorders suche as Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson's disease or Spinal Cord Injuries can disrupt the nerve signals between the brain and the bladder or bowel that can lead to incontinence. Also, long term diabetes can cause nerve damage (diabetuc neuropathy), affecting bladder control.
Hormonal Changes: The decrease in estrogen levels during menopause can lead to a weakening of the pelvic floor muscles and thinning of the urethral lining, contributing to incontinence. Pregnancy can also cause short-term or long-term incontinence because of the physical strain of carrying a baby can weaken the pelvic floor muscles.
Chronic Conditions: Conditions such as Obesity and Chronic Cough can also cause incontinence. Excess weight increases pressure on the bladder and pelvic floor muscles and persistent coughing, often due to smoking or respiratory conditions, can strain the pelvic floor muscles.
Lifestyle Factors: Certain foods, drinks, and medications can irritate the bladder, such as caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods, leading to urgency and frequency. Lack of exercise can contribute to weight gain and weakened muscles, increasing the risk of incontinence.
Treatments available
The treatment for incontinence depends on the underlying cause, the type, and the severity of the condition. Here are some common approaches:
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The BTL Emsella Chair, non-invasive treatment delivers roughly 1,100 pelvic floor contractions, promoting muscle re-education to enhance the strength and nerve control of your deep pelvic floor muscles. The chair takes care of the work while you relax, and a single session is equivalent to approximately 11,000 Kegel exercises completed in just 28 minutes!​​
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