Recurrent urinary tract infections are common and the condition is made worse by constipation or anticholinergic medication. Overflow incontinence can be caused by diabetes and some types of nerve damage. It also occurs in men with prostatic obstruction. Outflow obstruction . This almost always occurs in men, who may complain of difficulty in starting micturition, poor urinary stream and dribble after micturition, perhaps with a feeling of inadequate emptying.
Incontinence is due to inability to reach and use the toilet.
Body worn pads are bulky and in a home with many incontinent residents they can provide difficulties with storage space disposal. Washable pants with an integral pad may be sufficient for light urinary incontinence, and easier for the patient to manage alone. Properly used, pads can help to maintain dignity and independence, but they can lead to dependence on 'mopping up' and an acceptance that incontinence is expected in the elderly and irreversible. A continence products directory is available from the Continence Foundation. If the patient is sensible bladder retraining with the help of the specialist continence nurse is the appropriate treatment.