People with diabetes often have problems controlling their bladder and bowel. They may experience accidental leakage, frequent urination, and sudden urges to urinate. How does diabetes cause incontinence?
Obesity
Diabetics who experience incontinence may also be obese or overweight. The extra weight puts pressure onto the bladder, which can weaken the muscles of the pelvic floor that control bladder function. Whenever the individual does something physical, like lift weights or sneeze, urinary leakage may occur due to the increased pressure. This is called stress incontinence.
If your incontinence is linked to obesity, your doctor may suggest you start a diet and exercise regimen. When dealing with diabetes, it’s critical to maintain a healthy body weight and properly manage your blood glucose levels. Remember to stay well hydrated. You can also strengthen your pelvic floor muscles by doing kegel exercises. Make it a habit to perform kegels three times a day, morning, afternoon, and night.
Nerve damage
Diabetes may lead to nerve damage, which in turn affects your ability to control your bladder. This can cause overflow incontinence or urge incontinence. This means that you may feel like your bladder is never empty, causing you to constantly run for the bathroom and sometimes, not even making it on time.
If your incontinence is linked to nerve damage, you can try managing accidental leaks by wearing washable underwear. Less bulky than disposable incontinence briefs, washable underwear look and feel like ordinary underwear. They can be washed over and over, which helps you save money in the long run. The Wearever underwear come in a variety of designs for both men and women, so you can stay protected and confident all day long. You can also place a washable underpad on your mattress to protect your bedding from any accidents.
One behavioral method to try is to retrain your bladder. Use the bathroom on a schedule, say every two hours, and then increase that interval as you slowly regain bladder control. Squeeze your kegel muscles when you experience sudden urges to go.
Managing diabetes while dealing with incontinence can be frustrating. Be sure to speak to your doctor to see how you can better control your bladder and keep your blood glucose levels stable.