MUMBAI: One should be on the lookout for risk factors associated with urinary incontinence because early detection is key to controlling the problem and living a healthy life. On the occasion of World Continence Week, which is a global event running from June 20 to June 26, doctors and urologists are urging people to seek professional help if they have bladder or bowel difficulties instead of hiding and ignoring the problem. Some of the factors that increase your risk of developing urinary incontinence include:
• Gender. Women are more likely to have stress incontinence due to childbirth or menopause. However, men who have prostate gland problems are at an increased risk of overactive incontinence.
• Age. As you get older, the muscles in your bladder and urethra lose their strength. Changes with age reduce how much your bladder can hold and increase the chances of uncontrolled urine release.
• Being overweight. Extra weight increases pressure on your bladder and surrounding muscles, leading to urine leaking out.
• Smoking. Tobacco use may increase your risk of urinary incontinence.
• Family history. If a close family member has urinary incontinence, especially urge incontinence, your risk of developing the condition is higher.
• Some diseases. Neurological disease or diabetes may increase your risk of incontinence.
Dr ANil Varshney said “ With the help of today’s medical advancements, doctors can take care of all kinds of urinary incontinence cases. There are various treatments available, including lifestyle changes and medications to restore bladder control.”