Urinary incontinence, especially when caused by a weak bladder, can be treated in several ways.
Medication The first line of treatment is often medication. These drugs help to strengthen the bladder muscles and improve bladder control.
Sacral Nerve Stimulation If medication is ineffective, or if there are reasons why you cannot take medication, a device can be implanted to stimulate the nerves that control the bladder. This is called sacral nerve stimulation. It’s a highly effective option for suitable candidates, although it can be expensive.
Non-Surgical Options
- Intermittent self-catheterization: Patients can be taught to insert a catheter into their bladder at regular intervals to empty it.
- Indwelling catheter: A small tube is inserted into the bladder and left in place. This is a more permanent solution but carries risks of infection.
How Does the Bladder Work? Urine produced by the kidneys is stored in the bladder. When the bladder is full, signals are sent to the brain, which then signals the bladder to contract and the sphincter muscles to relax, allowing urination.
Why Does Urinary Incontinence Occur? Many factors can contribute to urinary incontinence, including:
- Infections (e.g., urinary tract infections)
- Nerve damage
- Weakened pelvic floor muscles
- Obstructions (e.g., prostate enlargement, stones)
- Medications
- Neurological conditions
Treatment Options
- Pelvic floor exercises: These exercises strengthen the muscles that support the bladder and urethra.
- Biofeedback: This technique uses electronic devices to help you learn to control your pelvic floor muscles.
- Electrical stimulation: A device is used to stimulate the pelvic floor muscles and strengthen them.
- Magnetic pelvic floor stimulation (ExMI): A non-invasive treatment that uses magnetic fields to stimulate the pelvic floor muscles.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct underlying anatomical problems or to implant a device to help control the bladder.
Choosing the Right Treatment The best treatment for urinary incontinence will depend on the underlying cause and the severity of your symptoms. Your healthcare provider can help you determine the most appropriate treatment option.
For Treatment in Istanbul
For the diagnosis and treatment of stress urinary incontinence, overactive bladder, mixed incontinence, overflow incontinence, functional incontinence, reflex incontinence, and temporary urinary incontinence, you can contact Prof. Dr. Ateş Karateke in Istanbul.