One of the many concerns associated with urinary incontinence is how to control odor. It can be difficult to do so while managing bladder problems, especially when you’re constantly around people. Fortunately there are strategies you can use to help minimize odors and keep you smelling fresh at all times:
- Drink water. Oftentimes, foul urine odors come from not drinking enough water. Many people with urinary incontinence believe that drinking less will help solve their bladder control problems. However, if you dress less, your urine becomes concentrated and will have a foul odor. Plus, dehydration can irritate the bladder, creating frequent urges to go.
- Check for urinary tract infections – another common cause of foul odors. You may have a urinary tract infection, or UTI, if:
- Your urine has an unusual strong foul odor.
- You feel a burning sensation while you pee.
- You feel as if you always need to pee.
- Only small drips come out when you try to urinate.
- Your urine is cloudy and dark-colored.
If you suspect that you have a UTI, contact your doctor as soon as possible. UTIs can be treated with antibiotics.
- Wear a diaper with odor control. Some adult briefs come with built-in odor control to minimize the strong smell of urine. Some examples include: Prevail Adjustable Underwear, Tranquility ATN, and Tena Super Briefs.
- Change briefs regularly. Even if your brief features odor control, you still need to change it often, especially after soiling. This not only helps with odor control, but keeps your brief from leaking and giving you diaper rashes.
- Use an adult diaper pail. Sometimes it’s not enough to just bag your soiled briefs up in regular plastic bags. An adult diaper pail is designed to hold all your used diapers and keep offensive smells from permeating your home.
- Try medication. Derifil and Nullo are two types of oral deodorant tablets that can help combat urine odors. Be sure to consult with your doctor to see if this is a safe and practical option for you.
