(Part 1 of a 3 part blog series)
By Urology Austin’s Jeffrey Kocurek, M.D.
Urinary habits are often taken for granted, but the negative impact that urinary issues have on everyday aspects of quality of life are tremendous.
Urinary incontinence, defined as the unintentional loss of urine, affects 10 to 13 million Americans. It is approximately twice as common in women as it is in men. It is estimated that 50 to 80 percent of patients in long-term care facilities suffer some type of incontinence. The negative consequences of incontinence adversely affect many aspects of quality of life.
Potential physical consequences of urinary incontinence include: bacterial and fungal urinary tract infections, skin infections, skin break down, falls and fractures, and sexual dysfunction. Psychological consequences include: stress, depression, loss of self respect and shame. Potential social consequences include: social avoidance, reduction of personal activities, loss of independence, and increased expenses.
It is estimated that more than 50% of women will live with incontinence for up to 9 years before seeking medical treatment. This doesn’t have to be you because urinary incontinence is a treatable problem and should be addressed.
Look out for our next blog about the latest treatments for urinary incontinence
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