Urinary incontinence can strike at any age
Urinary Incontinence Can Strike At Any Age
Senior men are more likely to develop incontinence. It is estimated that 25 percent of men who are over the age of 65 have incontinence. However, it is important to note that older age is not the only thing that increases the risk of urinary incontinence. There are many other things that can cause urinary incontinence.
Prostate Problems
Prostate problems are one of the main causes of male incontinence. Prostate problems are more common in older men, but they can occur at any age. Benign prostatic hyperplasia is one of the most common prostate problems. This condition occurs as the result of an enlarged prostate.
If the prostate is enlarged, then it will put pressure on the urethra. Men who have their prostate removed are also more likely to develop incontinence. Additionally, certain prostate cancer treatments can increase the risk of incontinence.
Diabetes
Diabetes can affect the muscles that control the bladder. It can also cause a person to urinate more frequently, which can also contribute to incontinence. Obesity is a common contributor to type 2 diabetes. Obesity can worsen incontinence by putting pressure on the bladder.
Neurological Diseases
Multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's disease are two of the most common neurological diseases that can contribute to male incontinence. Both of these conditions can make it difficult for the bladder and nervous system to communicate. It is estimated that 80 percent of people with multiple sclerosis suffer from incontinence. Twenty-five percent of people with Parkinson's disease suffer from incontinence.
Spinal Cord Injuries
It is estimated that 12,000 people suffer from spinal cord injuries. Eighty percent of people who are affected by spinal cord injuries are men. The spine sends signals from the brain to the bladder. Therefore, if the spinal cord is affected, then a man is more likely to suffer from incontinence.
The part of the spine that is affected will determine what symptoms a person experiences. If the injury affects the upper part of the spine, then it can cause the bladder to constantly empty itself. The bladder can stretch and not be able to empty itself if the lower part of the spine is affected.
Temporary Causes of Incontinence
Many men experience incontinence periodically. This may be caused by certain beverages such as coffee and alcohol. Incontinence may also be caused by the use of certain medications. High blood pressure medications, decongestants and diuretics can cause male incontinence.
