How is obesity related to incontinence?
Urinary incontinence affects millions of people around the world, but there are particular challenges for those also living with obesity. Let’s take a look at how obesity causes or worsens symptoms of urinary incontinence, the emotional and physical effects it can have, and the lifestyle changes you can make to reduce it.
- Understanding obesity-related incontinence
- How does obesity affect our physical and emotional health?
- What can I do to manage my obesity-related incontinence?
How does obesity cause urinary incontinence?
Obesity is a major risk factor for many people developing urinary incontinence at some point in their lives due to the stresses that it places on the body. Let’s take a closer look:
Extra pressure on the abdomen
Excess body fat in the abdomen can put unnecessary pressure on the pelvic floor, causing it to weaken over time alongside the support for the bladder and urethra, resulting in urinary incontinence.
Hormones and inflammation
Obesity often leads to a chronic state of inflammation, affecting various parts of the body - including the urinary tract. On top of this, excess fat tissue produces hormones and chemicals that can alter bladder function and increase the likelihood of urinary leakage.
Physical limitations and mobility issues
Those living with obesity might also face difficulties with physical activity, leading to a weaker pelvic floor and a reduced ability to control urine flow.
Exacerbate existing conditions
Obesity is often associated with other health conditions (e.g. diabetes and cardiovascular disease), which can have separate effects on bladder function and health. For example, nerve damage associated with diabetes can affect bladder control.
Changing your diet
No matter your weight, keeping a well-balanced diet is ideal. For obesity-related reasons, however, this can take unnecessary pressure off your bladder and pelvic floor. Then there’s cutting out caffeine and acidic foods - this will reduce bladder irritation and minimise incontinence episodes.
What are the physical and emotional effects of obesity-related incontinence?
Whilst obesity brings about incontinence-related problems, it can also bring about broader problems related to physical and emotional health, including:
- Skin irritation - Chronic incontinence - and the prolonged exposure to moisture associated with it - can lead to skin irritation, rashes, and infections. This is especially true for obese individuals, where larger skin folds can trap moisture and create an environment fit for bacterial and fungal growth.
- Increased risk of falls - Older adults with obesity and incontinence may have an increased risk of falls due to hurrying to the bathroom, especially at night.
- Social withdrawal - The fear of incontinence can lead to anxiety in social settings and physical activities, causing people to avoid social interactions and become isolated.
- Lower self-esteem and body image - Incontinence can worsen feelings of shame and embarrassment that those with obesity may already suffer from.
- Impact on mental health - The chronic stress and embarrassment related to incontinence can create or worsen mental health problems, such as anxiety and depression.
What can I do to manage my obesity-related incontinence?
Luckily, there are several lifestyle changes and medical interventions available that can help you reduce the symptoms of obesity-related incontinence.
Lifestyle changes
- Weight management - Even a modest 5-10% weight loss can reduce the number of incontinence episodes you experience, as the pressure around the bladder and pelvic floor is reduced.
- Changes to diet - Certain foods and drinks can irritate the bladder and worsen incontinence symptoms. Consider limiting your intake of caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods, and acidic fruits. Also, too much - and too little - water can impact bladder control, so be wary of how much water you’re drinking throughout the day.
- Regular exercise - Physical activity such as walking, swimming, or specialised workouts can help with overall weight loss whilst strengthening the muscles that support the bladder and pelvic floor.
Medical interventions
Pelvic floor training - Also known as Kegel exercises, these strengthen the pelvic floor muscles and effectively reduce incontinence symptoms.
Medications - Anticholinergic drugs block the chemical messenger in the brain associated with an overactive bladder. Speak with your GP to see whether these medications are suitable for you.
Surgical options - For severe or time-sensitive cases where lifestyle changes and medications don’t offer the proper support, surgery, such as sling procedures, could be considered with a health professional.
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