Having an Overactive Bladder is Often a Family Matter

15 August 2016

Having an Overactive Bladder is Often a Family Matter

It's not clear exactly how many people are affected, but it's estimated that between 3 and 6 million people in the UK may have some degree of urinary incontinence but it doesn’t have to be that way! Dr Philip Hall of the World Continence Foundation says it isn’t only the people with incontinence who are affected by the debilitating condition but also their families and friends. “A lack of control over bladder and bowel movements has led to a stigma associated with the condition. In many cases patients are embarrassed discussing it even with their doctors,” said Dr Hall. “Carers and relatives face difficulties in their lives having to hide the embarrassment of the incontinent person while also trying to persuade him or her to acknowledge and seek help. People with the condition may become socially isolated and the tasks carers have to do with hygiene and laundry can result in their tiredness, frustration and desperation.” Dr Hall is trying to reduce the impact of this stigma and offer sufferers hope. “Incontinence is not a part of normal aging and people should not suffer in silence. It is highly treatable and manageable,” Dr Hall said. The treatment of prolapse and urinary incontinence include Botox, sacral neuromodulation and other minimally invasive techniques, which can dramatically transform the lives of those affected. Here at Incontinence UK we recommend that if you are suffering from incontinence that you first talk to your doctor or continence nurse to discuss options and if you require any incontinence products to take a look at our wide range of incontinence products on our website. Best Wishes Incontinence UK Team www.incontinenceuk.co.uk