Causes of incontinence

Certain health conditions and events in life may cause incontinence or increase the risk of its development.

Some of the causes of incontinence:

  • urinary tract infections
  • urinary tract stones
  • cystitis
  • chronic infections
  • long-term suppression of the urge to urinate
  • overall dysfunction of the sphincter muscle due to reduced muscle tonus of the pelvic floor muscles
  • uncontrolled spasms of the bladder due to degenerative process in the bladder muscles
  • bladder tumors
  • pregnancy
  • childbirth
  • menopause
  • enlarged prostate (and other prostate issues)
  • obesity
  • constipation
  • reduced mobility
  • loss of mobility due to old age or accident
  • neurological or musculoskeletal diseases such as multiple sclerosis or arthritis
  • spinal chord injuries
  • memory loss due to brain atrophy (dementia)
  • congenital abnormality
  • some surgical procedures (removal of part or entire prostate, removal of part or entire uterus)
  • some long-lasting and chronic diseases like diabetes, stroke, heart conditions, respiratory diseases
  • certain medications

The risks of development of faecal incontinence are mainly the same as with urinary incontinence, including:

  • chronic diarrhea
  • constipation
  • overactive bowel
  • accidental injuries of the rectum and anus
  • procidence (total prolapsus of the rectum)
  • diseases of the large intestine

Many causes may be prevented and many of their consequences cured

Women in menopause experience hormonal changes. Due to these changes, the bladder’s elasticity is reduced and this may cause incontinence. Besides these changes, pelvis muscles may be weakened by long-lasting administration of some medications, untreated infections and the like.

Exercise of pelvic floor muscles may prevent the appearance and development of incontinence.

Contact us with confidence at info@simbex.hr.