Health Tip: Understanding Urinary Incontinence

(HealthDay News) — Urinary incontinence is the loss of bladder control, a common concern for people as they get older.

Millions of adults in the United States have urinary incontinence, more often women than men. Treatment varies based on the problem’s severity, and ranges from simple exercises and bladder training to use of medication, a medical device or surgery.

Common causes for the problem include:

  • In women, weakened and stretched pelvic muscles after childbirth.
  • Certain medicines.
  • Being overweight or obese, which increases pressure on the bladder and related muscles.
  • Urinary tract infection.
  • Vascular disease.
  • Diseases such as diabetes, Alzheimer’s and multiple sclerosis.