For patients unable to empty their bladder, a physician may place an intermittent catheter, a small tube which allows more control of voiding. Catheters are particularly helpful for women with overflow incontinence or incontinence due to multiple sclerosis. Rarely, incontinence may not be sufficiently relieved by treatment. Disposable pads, special protective undergarments or urine-collection devices may be recommended. These are generally reserved for situations in which appropriate treatment options have already been exhausted.
Urinary incontinence comprises a wide range of symptoms and disease conditions.
Although self-treatment may be temporarily helpful, it could delay or compromise definitive medical treatment for the underlying problem. Do not be embarrassed to seek help from your medical care professional. Share full information with your health care provider, including current and recent medications taken, frequency and circumstances of urinary incontinence, and other medical conditions or factors which may have changed in recent months. If antibiotics or other medications are prescribed , be sure to follow instructions and take them on schedule and for the full course of days. Likewise, drinking less fluid may be helpful.