Urinary incontinence refers to the involuntary leakage of urine. There are several types of urinary incontinence, each with its own distinct characteristics and causes.
1. Stress Urinary Incontinence
Stress urinary incontinence occurs when physical activity, such as coughing, sneezing, laughing, exercising, or lifting heavy objects, puts pressure on the bladder, causing urine leakage. This type of incontinence is often caused by weakened pelvic floor muscles.
2. Urge Incontinence
Urge incontinence is characterized by a sudden, strong urge to urinate that is difficult to control. Individuals with urge incontinence may experience frequent urination, even during the night. This type of incontinence can be triggered by various factors, including:
- Urinary tract infections: Infections can irritate the bladder and increase the urge to urinate.
- Neurological conditions: Conditions like multiple sclerosis or Parkinson’s disease can affect the nerves that control the bladder.
- Overactive bladder: This condition is characterized by an overactive bladder muscle, which can lead to frequent and urgent urination.
3. Overflow Incontinence
Overflow incontinence occurs when the bladder doesn’t empty completely, causing it to become overfull and leak. This can be caused by:
- Urethral obstruction: A blockage in the urethra can prevent the bladder from emptying completely.
- Weak bladder muscles: Weak bladder muscles may not be able to contract forcefully enough to empty the bladder.
- Nerve damage: Damage to the nerves that control the bladder can affect bladder emptying.
4. Mixed Incontinence
Mixed incontinence is a combination of stress and urge incontinence. Individuals with mixed incontinence may experience both types of leakage.
5. Functional Incontinence
Functional incontinence is caused by physical or mental impairments that prevent a person from reaching the toilet in time. For example, individuals with severe arthritis or dementia may experience functional incontinence.
6. Gross Total Incontinence
Gross total incontinence refers to the complete loss of bladder control, both day and night. This condition can be caused by:
- Birth defects
- Spinal cord injuries
- Surgery
- Fistulas (abnormal connections between the bladder and other organs)
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.