Understanding Incontinence Types

The treatment of incontinence relies on making a correct diagnosis of the type of incontinence and then instituting specific therapy for that particular type of incontinence. There may be some overlap in treatment. For example, Kegel exercises play a role in the treatment of all forms of incontinence. I have listed out all the different types below.

CLASSIFICATION of INCONTINENCE and DEFINITIONS

Stress Incontinence:

This is one of the most typical types of incontinence. Basically it occurs when you have a sudden increase in ‘intra-abdominal pressure’. That’s the medical term for what happens you when you laugh, cough or sneeze.

Urgency Incontinence:

Also a common form of incontinence, this is when you have a sudden need to urinate and you can’t help yourself or stop it.

Overflow Incontinence:

When your bladder fills and can’t hold anymore and some ends up leaking out.

Functional Incontinence:

Leaking of the bladder due to mental or physical issue that hinders your ability to realize you need to go to the bathroom and it just comes away (e.g. dementia, spinal cord injury).

Mixed Incontinence:

urine leakage due to any combinations of the above types.


Regards,

Dr. Himel