Incontinence is not a natural part of aging. There are many things that can be done to give you back control of your bladder, and your life. Anyone with incontinence should undergo a basic evaluation that includes a medical history, a physical examination, urinalysis and a test that measures post-void residual volume. These basic tests often provide a doctor with enough information to recommend non-surgical treatments, such as behavioral therapy or medications. The patient does not respond to an adequate trial of therapy.
Surgery is considered.
Blood or white blood cells have been found in the urine and there is no sign of infection. The patient has other conditions, such as a urinary tract infection, persistent difficulty emptying or initiating emptying of the bladder, previous surgery or radical pelvic surgery, presence of pelvic relaxation or neurologic problems. With the treatments available today, about 80 percent of those affected by urinary incontinence can be cured or significantly improved. Certain medications may be prescribed to treat infection, stop abnormal bladder contractions or tighten the bladder-neck muscles. Behavioral therapy uses biofeedback to increase the patient's awareness of the lower urinary tract and can enhance control of the muscles that control the bowel and bladder.