Incontinence... the silent affliction

(Published on 27 March 2007 in 'Women at Work' - W @ W - a supplement of the Daily Mirror, Colombo, Sri Lanka)

The objective of writing this column is not just about making smart-alecky retorts, cocky observations and smug comments… it’s about sharing and learning from each other. This week I have chosen to write on – incontinence. People who have elderly members at home will understand and know what this is all about.

Incontinence refers to the loss of normal control of the bladder or the bowels. Urinary incontinence is more common especially amongst the aged. A person having urinary incontinence cannot hold the urine for long and has sporadic trickling. In extreme cases even an action like sneezing could result in an accident. In other words, incontinence is the involuntary flow of urine. We all know that the loss of bladder control is perceived as socially unacceptable and is a cause for great embarrassment. People affected with this problem feel ashamed and depressed. Incontinence is also referred to as "the silent affliction" as most often the patients suffer in silence trying to cope with the problem all on their own. Other impacts of incontinence include social withdrawal and low self-esteem.

Incontinence can result from damage to the muscle, including sphincters, nerves, or the part of the body involved to store and release waste. Several types of cancer and its treatments are also associated with this ailment. Incontinence can be successfully treated, and people suffering from this problem should seek medical advice. The method of treatment depends on the cause. A surgical solution is sought in extreme cases. Placement of an artificial sphincter has also given successful results. In most cases, treatment may include medications, dietary changes, muscle-strengthening exercises, or behavioural training, which involves bladder training and requires regular and monitored visits to the rest room. As a precaution some people suffering from this problem resort to wearing adult diapers.

Patients are also advised to do regular pelvic exercises (Kegel’s exercises) in order to correct the problem. However it is advised that even those not suffering with urinary incontinence do these exercises regularly. Just as one would lift weights to tone one’s muscles, it is important to keep the pelvic muscles strengthened and in good shape. Doing Kegel’s exercise regularly will keep the pelvic floor muscles toned and help reduce the risk of incontinence as one gets older. The pelvic floor muscles need to be contracted repeatedly. Usually 10 minutes of doing so daily would be good enough. These exercises can be done anywhere and any time. It is usually best to begin when lying. Later these exercises can also be done either sitting on a chair or even while standing.

A befitting way to close an article on such a serious topic would be to quote Andy Rooney: "The best classroom in the world is at the feet of an elderly person." One should never stop learning from the elders in the family. It’s only a question of time when one will fill their shoes.

Miss Know-All
miss.know.all@gmail.com