Talking to Your Doctor
If you find that you are experiencing any level of incontinence, it’s important to discuss your options and possible treatments moving forward. Your doctor will likely work with you to make a list of any risk factors you may have that could have led to the development of incontinence, such as:
- Pelvic trauma or surgery
- Medication side effects or use of diuretics
- Decreased fluid intake
- Weakened pelvic muscles
- Previous urinary tract or renal problems
- Cognitive impairments
- Neurormuscular impairments
- Unsteady gait
- Environmental hazards
- Poor nutrition
Another topic of discussion in developing a treatment plan will include your urinary pattern. How frequently do you go? How much do you pass? What time of day are you urinating and are you waking at night to go to the bathroom? You will also likely be asked about your family history and your physical and cognitive limitations.
Your doctor may do some tests to determine if there are potential urinary problems that are causing your incontinence. This can be determined easily by testing for blood in the urine.
You may also be asked to monitor your fluid intake and urine output for a period of time to identify any underlying issues.