With so many people experiencing bladder weakness it’s time to talk about it!

At Fighting Fifty we like to tackle problems head on and talk about the problems so many of us are experiencing.  It’s thought that over 6 million people in the UK are experiencing bladder weakness, yet it’s rarely spoken about.  So, we invited Dr Hilary Jones to record a video discussing the types of bladder weakness, also known as incontinence, and explain ways in which we can overcome this embarrassing condition.

Watch the video below to learn more about Bladder Weakness

Different experiences of bladder weakness

Physical ageing
Due to the physical effects of ageing on the urinary system, the elderly can often experience a disruption in the process of storing urine and emptying the bladder. Less elasticity can reduce the bladder’s capacity and lead to a more frequent need to urinate; whilst the kidneys can become less efficient at concentrating urine with age, resulting in a higher volume entering the bladder.

Menopause
The menopause reduces the quantity of oestrogen within the abdominal muscles, which can lead to a particular type of bladder weakness known as stress incontinence.  This refers to a slight leak of urine, usually a few drops, which can occur when sneezing, coughing or laughing.

Stress
This involuntary leakage of urine is caused by acts of physical exertion such as coughing, sneezing or laughing, and is often connected to a weakening of the pelvic floor muscles.  Stress incontinence will usually only cause a small amount of urine to leak, however it is important to note that heavier leakage may be experienced if the bladder is full at the time of exertion.

Urge incontinence
The second most common form of bladder weakness experienced by women is brought on by a sudden and urgent need to urinate.  This occurs when the muscles in the wall of the bladder contract involuntarily, overcoming the resistance offered by the pelvic floor muscles and sphincter, forcing large amounts of urine out.

For many women, stress and urge incontinence can co-exist and this is referred to as mixed incontinence.

Underlying conditions of bladder weakness

Moderate to heavier experiences of bladder weakness are often the consequence or symptom of an underlying condition, which prevents women from reaching the toilet in time. This can be prevalent for the elderly who may have the added complication of reduced mobility from stiff joints or arthritis, but can equally be experienced by women suffering from debilitating conditions or injuries, such as Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis or spinal injuries.

Obesity
Excess weight can put added pressure on the abdominal and pelvic muscles, which can result in bladder weakness. As such, a higher prevalence of heavy bladder weakness is experienced by obese individuals which itself can be caused by a number of underlying health conditions. Obesity can also be attributed to diabetes which, in turn, can be a cause of bladder weakness independently.

Certain medication
Some temporarily prescribed medication may have diuretic side-effects, causing women to experience bladder weakness.

Ways to control the experience of bladder weakness

• Eat healthily to avoid constipation and continue drinking recommended amounts of fluids to ensure urine does not become more concentrated and irritate the bladder
• Quit smoking to reduce violent coughing and irritation to the bladder
• Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which stimulates the bladder
• If overweight, manage diet and weight
• Avoid foods that irritate the bladder, such as spicy foods or fizzy drinks
• If diabetic, keep blood sugar level under control

For a free sample and more information from visit the TENA website.

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If you have any questions for Dr Hilary Jones please post them below or privately through our Ask the Expert Section.