Before Prostate Surgery - What You Can Do to Help Prevent Incontinence

If you are planning to have prostate surgery you may need to speak to your doctor about incontinence. It is fairly common for males to have incontinence problems after surgery as the prostate needs to heal since the muscles have been sliced and stretched. To help you prevent incontinence here are some things that you need to know about prostate surgery.

What are the risks?

When you are dealing with any type of surgery you need to be well-informed. What are the risks associated with prostate surgery? How much experience does your surgeon have with prostate surgery? After prostate surgery it is normal for males to suffer from incontinence and there isn't a lot you can do about preventing this besides purchasing incontinence supplies that can make managing incontinence easier. The good news is that not nearly as many men are suffering from incontinence as long thanks to advancements in the procedures that are preventing incontinence. Some men may need to take medications after and there are some differences with your sex life as you may have a decrease in your sex drive or may not be able to perform for a little while. Speak to your doctor about the risks as you could end up infertile after the surgery.

What to do before the surgery

Typically your doctor will give you some medications that you need to take before the procedure and after the procedure. Some medications will be for pain where others are used to help prevent constipation. It is common to have constipation after just about any type of surgery so stool softeners are a great idea to help prevent straining. You also need to consider buying some adult diapers and other incontinence products as bleeding is quite common after the procedure. Depending upon the extent of your surgery your doctor may also recommend that you go home with a catheter. Having incontinence supplies like wipes can prevent you from dealing with skin rashes and other issues like infections.

Pelvic floor exercises

Since most men will take up to a month before they are healed from a prostate surgery you need to prepare yourself ahead of time by getting in shape. Studies indicate that doing pelvic floor exercises ahead of the surgery can help to make your muscles stronger so that you will not suffer from incontinence after the surgery. These Kegel exercises are simple to do. When you are urinating you will focus on stopping the flow of urine. Now that you have identified these muscles you need to focus on doing these exercises several times a day as it will help to give you more control over your ability to hold in urine. It is recommended that you practice your Kegel exercises about 30 times a day at least a month or longer before your surgery so you can recover faster. You also need to focus on doing the exercises after your surgery to aid in a speedy recovery.

Using incontinence products

Prepare yourself for incontinence after the surgery. It is a problem that you will likely deal with and hopefully you only deal with it for a few days. Having a nice supply of adult diapers and other incontinence supplies will allow you to manage your condition effectively and it will prevent you from feeling embarrassed. The right type of incontinence products will allow you to get back to work and to rally just live your life again without the embarrassment that is associated with incontinence. You need to make sure you are purchasing incontinence supplies for men as these supplies have different padding needs and fit differently from the supplies made for women.

Incontinence - How To Stay Dry At The Gym

Is there a day that goes by without an ad for some belly flattening product or some diet that will burn the flab right off your belly? We are obsessed with our looks and it's not surprising that millions at least try to do some form of exercise to get their bodies in better shape. That doesn't mean they stick at it but at least they try. If you aren't willing to give it a go at the gym because you suffer from incontinence, you might be surprised what you can do.

For starters, one of the biggest causes of incontinence is weak pelvic floor muscles and the cure for that condition is in fact exercise. Kegel exercises, which are basically isometric exercises focusing on the muscles you use to stop the flow of urine, can be performed anywhere at any time.

Kegels simply involve contracting and holding muscles and then slowly releasing those muscles. If you religiously stay at it for three months you can say bye-bye to your incontinence problem. If you reinforce those exercises with regular cardio and strength training your on your way to normal continence.

The other thing you can consider before heading off to the gym is simply watching both the volume and type of fluids you consume. Don't be chugging down colas or coffee or tea as they are all natural diuretics. Do void yourself before heading to the gym.

Of course the ultimate confidence builder would be to wear a pad or pants that can absorb and urine and prevent leakage. These products come in a variety of styles and absorbency levels and are completely undetectable under any kind of clothing.

Working out and incontinence don't have to mutually exclusive. A little planning can prevent any accidents from occurring. The real challenge is to have the discipline to stay at the exercise routine.

How to Choose Incontinence Underwear

One of the first decisions that anyone with incontinence needs to make is choosing some incontinence underwear. While not everyone will need an adult diaper most people with moderate to severe incontinence will need to choose some type of incontinence underwear to help them manage this condition. This can be an overwhelming task due to the large number of choices that are available in incontinence products. There is a variety of incontinence undergarments that run from bikini styles all the way to adult diapers. Those with incontinence will need to take certain factors into account before they make their choice as to what incontinence supplies they will be using. Here is what you need to know about how to choose incontinence underwear-

• Start with the size- Many people don't realize how important size is when it comes to incontinence underwear. It cannot be stressed enough that size is crucial to how effective the underwear will be. If the incontinence sufferer does not have the right size of incontinence undergarments then he or she will be prone to leakage and accidents. Today, incontinence underwear has all sorts of features that will protect the wearer if the size is right. Leg cuffs, guards, and even waistbands that fit right will allow the wearer to feel confident that he or she has the right amount of protection. Most lines of these products from pads to adult diapers are sized which means even the smallest and largest people can find the right size of incontinence underwear to meet their needs. Smaller individuals no longer have to feel like they are "swimming" in their underwear while larger people can be comfortable and protected, as well.

• Consider gender- At one time most kinds of incontinence supplies was unisex. This led to most wearers having to take a chance as to whether or not their incontinence undergarment was going to give them the protection they needed. Today, most incontinence undergarment is designed for a specific gender. Manufacturers of incontinence supplies understand that men and women have very different needs when it comes to incontinence underwear so they have designed underwear that meets those needs. Each gender can find incontinence products including underwear that has the protection where they need it. In addition, many lines of incontinence underwear are designed with the gender in mind as far as how they look. Many women don't want to have to give up wearing feminine looking underwear and men often want incontinence underwear that can be worn under normal clothing (even worn in the locker room), and be undetectable. There are many different types of incontinence undergarments that address this need for fashion, as well.

• Understand the severity of the incontinence- Finally, anyone who is purchasing incontinence underwear needs to consider the severity of the incontinence. The reality is that not all incontinence is the same. Some people have only light leakage while others will have a complete loss of bladder and/or bowel control. The good news is that almost all incontinence underwear comes in a variety of absorbencies which means that wearer can choose the right absorbency that they need. You should keep in mind that if you are purchasing underwear for yourself that you may need a different absorbency at night and you may find even find that your incontinence protection needs vary from day to day, as well. However, no matter how tempted you are to go with the heaviest incontinence absorbency you should only use the level that you need. Using too much incontinence protection can be bad for your skin and just as ineffective as using to light of incontinence protection.

Loss of Bladder Control - Don't Let it Ruin Your Life

With today's incontinence products we don't have to let loss of bladder control ruin our lives.

There are an awful lot of people who have to deal with incontinence, both urinary and fecal incontinence. Somewhere I read that 1 out of 6 American women suffer from one kind of incontinence or another. I don't know about you, but I am one of those who have to deal with stress incontinence. But, thanks to modern technology, we don't have to let our loss of bladder control ruin our lives. Adult diapers and other incontinence products manufactured today are effective for handling this problem.

Do you remember how it used to be? It was impossible to control the urine odor in "old people's homes". Do you remember puddles under the wheelchairs? Nowadays disposable adult diapers and pads for incontinence are readily available, convenient and effective. In spite of that, there are many who deal with their problem by trying to deny it. Women, and men, are said to be using washcloths or tissues or menstrual pads (not made for urine absorption). This can only cause frustration and insecurity and embarrassment because of leakage and odor.

People dealing with incontinence should see their physicians to find the reason and to learn about medication and other possible medical treatment. For many, even with medical intervention, the problem will continue.

Manufacturers of today's incontinence products are continuing to make improvements. There is an incontinence product for every need; it just takes a willingness to try to find the one that works best for you. Disposable protection comes in several different forms:

* Briefs that lie out flat like a diaper and are secured with tape or velcro and are good for moderate to heavy absorption.

* Pull-ups, (also called protective underwear), are made to be pulled up or down like normal underwear. Some come with tear-away side seams so that they are easy to remove.

* Belted Undergarments are like large pads but are secured with a belt and are worn inside normal underwear, for moderate to heavy absorption.

* Pads come in many sizes and shapes with an adhesive strip to secure to normal underwear. They are useful for light to moderate absorption.

* Liners. These are thinner and useful for intermittent, light incontinence. Some can be worn alone, others are made to be added to another product for extra protection or longer wear time.

One does not have to stick to a single product. They can be varied and/or combined depending upon the circumstances. Purchasing your products online is a good idea. Not only are the better products offered on line but you can request free samples to try out.

With today's incontinence products we don't have to let loss of bladder control ruin our lives. We can go on living - active, carefree and confident.

Child Incontinence is Rarely As Simple As Bedwetting

And, voila!, you can put your mind at ease! There are many services & incontinence supplies available to help you manage your child's incontinence. Urinary Incontinence (UI) doesn't affect just the child, but the entire family. Mom's & Dad's are constantly worrying about accidents, odors, rashes, infections of rashes & the family budget.

Are there enough supplies at childcare? Is there an ample supply of supplies at Grandma's while you steal away for a well deserved weekend? Eeeck! What about school - is your child going to be embarrassed by leakage or odor? These are major issues that you live with day in & day out when you have a child living with UI.

Here are a few simple suggestions to help you & your family:

Buy Hospital Grade Incontinence Products

There is a big difference between hospital grade incontinence supplies and those that you find at your local box store or grocery store. Hospital grade incontinence supplies are better quality & will provide your child with the best protection, the best fit & the latest technology that wicks the moisture away from their body & absorb odors. Even after multiple UI episodes, your child will remain dry & comfy. You & your child can both relax, knowing that there won't be any leakage or embarrassing odors in class anymore.

Buy your incontinence products from a store that specializes in incontinence products.

They carry well known, hospital grade, incontinence supplies. Incontinence briefs, incontinence underwear, incontinence liners & bladder control pads are available in a variety of sizes & protection levels - and can even be gender specific. They will know what to suggest for your child's UI. These incontinence products provide discreetness under clothing for today's active children. Don't let their UI keep them indoors!

Save $$$$

When you buy online, you save money because you buy in bulk. Therefore you get better, hospital grade incontinence products, for less.

Time Management

When you order from a reputable company, from the comfort of your own home - you won't be left staring at an empty bag of incontinence supplies. You will have them delivered to your door - on your schedule. After all, you have better things to do than run from store to store - hoping they'll have your child's size in stock - and then worrying about leakage & odor issues because you don't have hospital grade incontinence supplies. You're already busy trying to be the best parent & the best providers possible, rushing out to buy more incontinence supplies shouldn't take up any of your time.

With today's innovations in incontinence products, you have many options. Use those options to limit the stresses that UI can cause & allow those options to open up more time to spend with your family.

Disposable Or Reusable Incontinence Pants - Which is Best For You?

Incontinence sufferers know all too well the embarrassment and discomfort that uncontrolled urination can cause. The need for an incontinence product becomes obvious after the first incident where your clothes get soiled and your skin gets wet. The obvious solution is underwear that can absorb the urine so the question becomes what kind to get, disposable or reusable incontinence pants.

If you are new to incontinence then you probably have an image of incontinence pants being something similar to a child's diaper, big and bulky. The truth is, modern adult incontinence underwear has a very slim profile and is nearly impossible to detect under clothing. Further, incontinence pants come in a number of styles and materials to offer comfort and fashion as well as protection.

When choosing incontinence underwear there are a couple of things to keep in mind. First and foremost is the level of absorbency that you will require. These products come in a number of designs and have different levels of capacity to fit your specific requirements. Secondly you want to consider your lifestyle and the different kinds of activities that you engage in. Based on how you live your life, there may be times when disposable rather than reusable incontinence pants may be preferable.

Disposable pants are ideal if you travel a lot or if you don't have ready access to a washing machine. Reusable pants are obviously going to cost less in the long run and you treat them just as you would regular underwear. Both types of incontinence pants absorb the urine and keep the liquid away from your skin and some even control odor as well. They both essentially do the same job it's just a question of which is more convenient for you.

Regardless if you choose disposable or reusable incontinence pants, using these products will allow you to carry on life normally while you and your physician work on a cure. There is no need to alter your lifestyle or enjoy life less simply because of incontinence.

Managing Incontinence While Traveling

Do you have incontinence and you are a frequent flyer? The best thing that you should do is to get yourself prepared all the time, especially during the flight. A lot of people gets embarrassed because they were not prepared for the flight and that they have incontinence.

There are many incontinence products out there that you can use so you will not have problems leaking when you are not expecting to. Since people who are old or those who are sick are the ones that usually have incontinence, it is righteous that you should prepare the things that they are going to use before they do their daily activities.

The most common incontinence product is the adult diaper. This is the most basic item to prevent these people from leaking in public. These diapers work exactly the same with a baby diapers. It catches the urine of the person so it will not scatter and come out unnoticed.

As a person with incontinence, you must be prepared for all the activities that you do, especially if you are going on a trip. But most of the time, it is someone who is close to you, like your loved ones that needs these things. This is mostly because they are old enough, sick or impaired. As a result, you must prepare it for them because they are usually unaware of it.

If you are traveling with a person who has an incontinence problem, you must have all their incontinence supplies around, so that if that person needs to go to the bathroom or unnoticeably leaked, then there is no problem because you were prepared. It is also advisable that you must have all the necessary products that this person needs.

You can also manage these people's incontinence by making them avoid over consumption of diuretics, antidepressants, antihistamines and cough-cold medicines. This will help them process fewer products in their body. Also, these people must perform Kegel exercises in a daily basis so that they will stay fit for the rest of the day. Double voiding is also a good thing to do as a preparation. This is a process where the person urinates and waits for a few seconds and then urinates again. This will help them get used to controlling the urination movement. In addition to that, this person must retrain the bladder. this is a process where this person should urinate every three to six hours only.

People with incontinence must eat fruits, vegetables and whole grains everyday so that they can control and prevent constipation, especially if they are going for a trip. Healthy living is always the best solution to any health problems. If this person is a smoker, he or she must refrain from doing so because the nicotine from cigarettes irritates the bladder which helps your incontinence problems get worse.

There are numerous protective devices and products that you must prepare for the person with incontinence when flying. Some of them are the bed pads, combination pad-pant systems, disposable or reusable adult diapers, full-length absorbent undergarments, male incontinence drip collectors and underwear liners. The underwear liners come with pads, guards, shields and inserts. It is better that you are prepared than to get embarrassed especially during the flight.

Incontinence Pants For Women - Pads and Liners

Incontinence pads and liners have come a long way in the past decade. In addition to an ever-expanding variety of shapes, sizes, and absorbency levels, there are now a host of products made just for women.

Semi-disposable pants with built-in pads or liners - Made from breathable knit fabrics and designed to hold a disposable pad or liner snugly in place, these garments are cool and comfortable. They are available both as briefs and with thigh-length legs, which many women find convenient when wearing slacks. They are designed to be laundered and reused many times, then thrown away.

Insertable pads - An essential part of many incontinence briefs systems, pads may be either disposable or reusable. Some are created to fit precisely with a particular brand of briefs, while others can be worn with a variety of undergarments. Incontinence pads are longer, thicker, and wider than sanitary pads or napkins, and most have a waterproof backing. They are available in a wide range of sizes and thicknesses, both as disposables and reusables, and many brands offer different degrees of absorbency.

Shaped or contoured pads - These are larger than insertable pads, extending from front waist to back waist, and are contoured to fit closely to the body. They generally have a waterproof backing and are most widely available as disposables, often made of a material that traps wetness as a gel inside the pad, keeping the skin dry. They are designed to be worn under briefs or waterproof pants, and can provide long-lasting, secure protection for even moderate to heavy incontinence.

Adult Diapers for contoured for women - Designed to provide maximum protection, these garments feature a highly absorbent inner layer and a waterproof outer layer, specially shaped to the contours of the female body. Shaped or contoured diapers are most widely available as disposables, and are usually worn under waterproof pants. Because they are easily layered with additional absorbent padding, these garments provide a high degree of long-lasting leak protection. Though somewhat bulkier than some other solutions, these garments can offer both comfort and confidence, even for people with heavy incontinence or in extended wear situations.

Urinary Incontinence

Have you experienced leaking urine when you sneeze, cough, and laugh out loud? How about if you are on your way on your bathroom, and even before you reach the toilet bowl, does your urine leak? Or have you felt intense and sudden bladder urges that you cannot control? If you answer yes to all these, then you are experiencing a problem in your bladder that is called urinary incontinence.

Urinary incontinence is a condition where one experiences unwanted leakage or loss of urine. In the United States, this is a very common problem since 15 million Americans are estimated to suffer from this condition. And from this 15 million, more than two thirds are women.

The inability to control urine may not be very alarming to some, but for most patients, this is an extremely distressing problems that can often lead to isolation, depression, and physiological problems. This condition is also a burden for family, caregivers, and the community. Incontinence is one of the major reasons why some families put aging parents into nursing homes.

If you are suffering from urinary incontinence or if a family member does, you must be aware that there are several treatments available, depending on the type of urinary incontinence that you experience. These types include acute or transient urinary incontinence and chronic urinary incontinence. Chronic incontinence includes stress incontinence, urge incontinence, overflow incontinence, and functional incontinence. In order to have successful treatment, the doctor conducts an evaluation in order to determine the type of incontinence that the patient is suffering from and its cause. Some of the treatments available include behavioral therapy, medications, non-surgical devices, and surgery.

Keep in mind that urinary incontinence can be treated and controlled. So if you are suffering from this condition, you should never hide the problem from everyone, especially your doctor. If you are having bladder control problems, it is always best to consult your doctor than to suffer in silence.

Life Beyond Incontinence, Thanks to Topnotch Products

When many people think of incontinence products, adult nappies immediately spring to mind. While there's no question that adult diapers are extremely useful and come quite in handy for people who suffer from incontinence, it's also important to note that there are many other products available. If you are among the many people who suffer from incontinence, you have a wide range of products at your disposal to help make life a little easier.

Know Your Options -

Whether you've been coping with incontinence for some time, or have only recently been having to deal with it, knowing what your options are can be tremendously helpful. The first place to start is in your doctor's office; talk to him about your incontinence and see what kinds of recommendations he has for you. Always take into consideration that the advice you receive should only be a starting point and that you will most likely need to perform additional research in order to arrive at the most suitable solution.

Find The Right Adult Nappies -

There are many different types of adult nappy available today; take your time trying out different kinds until you arrive at the solution that is right for you. The nappy that you choose will play the biggest role in how well you cope with your incontinence, so selecting one that is comfortable and efficient is key. Once you've done that, the coast will be clear for you to move on to other incontinence products that will further improve your life and your situation.

Use Other Products And Aids To Make Life More Comfortable -

As mentioned above, there is more to managing incontinence than adult nappies. For instance, bed pads can help those with mild incontinence get through the night without having to wear a nappy; they can also help people with more advanced cases of incontinence keep their beds as clean and fresh as possible. There are also wheelchair pads and regular chair pads available, allowing you to keep your favourite spot as clean as can be. Living with incontinence doesn't have to mean being uncomfortable, or having to put up with a less than clean environment.

Lead An Active Life Despite Incontinence -

Between the use of high quality adult nappies and the various pads and other accessories that are currently available, it is more than possible to lead the kind of life you want - despite your incontinence. The key is being open to new ideas and products, and being willing to try new things out as needed. When all is said and done, you will wonder why you ever considered missing out on life, since your incontinence will no longer rule it.

How Should I Clean the Skin After Someone With Incontinence Has an Accident?

One of the major issues confronting both people who have incontinence and caregivers for incontinent loved ones is how to clean up after there has been an accident. This can be both an emotional and physical issue. The person who has had the accident may be embarrassed and ashamed and if they are unable to take care of themselves they may feel even more humiliated. This makes it very important that the caregiver know the right procedure for cleaning up the person in the fastest and most efficient way possible.

It is also important to keep in mind that the skin on the person who is experiencing incontinence may be vulnerable. This is especially true if the person is older since aging skin tends to be more delicate and fragile. This makes it crucial to use gentle incontinence products that have been formulated to deal with incontinence. These incontinence supplies can be purchased on sites that offer adult incontinence products. Along with being able to purchase adult diapers, incontinence pads, and incontinence underwear, there are also cleansers, moisturizers, and skin creams that provide a protective barrier.

There are other tips that can help you to deal with the aftermath of an incontinence accident in an efficient manner. These tips are:-

Keep a bag of clothes and incontinence supplies handy:-
This way you won't have to make the person you are cleaning wait while you go and gather up all of the incontinence supplies that you need. It is important that you make sure that you replenish the bag after each use so you do not have to stop and look for something. Keep in mind that a quick change and cleaning is key to keeping the skin of the incontinent person healthy and infection free.

Have plenty of incontinence products on hand:-
Just like companies that have a reorder point you should have a point where you reorder the incontinence undergarment that is being used. Whether the person with incontinence can do themselves or this falls to the caregiver when there is plenty of incontinence undergarments on hand you won't risk running out. Be sure to figure in shipping time when you go to reorder whatever incontinence products you are using.

Check with the doctor if you have any questions:-
There can be certain conditions that affect what incontinence products are used and how they may affect the skin of the person with incontinence. If you have any questions about what incontinence products should be used or certain ways to clean the skin you should consult with your health care professional.

Now that you know the tips that can make cleaning the skin of someone who has had an incontinence accident easier, here is the procedure that should be followed:

use as many wet wipes as necessary to thoroughly clean the skin. Many incontinence wipes come with a cleaner built in so you may not need to add anything. It is recommended that you stay away from using a fabric washcloth since this can be hard on the skin. When you are finished pat don't rub the skin dry.

Apply a cornstarch like powder if you do desire. This can aid in the drying and provide a protective barrier to the skin. It is also at this stage you can put on a moisturizer and skin barrier cream if needed.

Replace with a new incontinence undergarment.

Home Testing For Stress and Urge Incontinence

Stress and urge incontinence are not diagnoses but rather symptom complexes that the patient reports to the healthcare practitioner. A diagnosis identifies the causes of urinary incontinence and is made by demonstrating objective evidence of urine loss.

Distinguishing between stress incontinence and urge incontinenece is vital because therapy particularly is based on an accurate diagnosis of the cause of incontinence.

Simple test to determine your symptoms

This is simple guide for diagnosing the type of incontinence developed by Kauppila & Kujansuu, as used by healthcare practitioners.

All that is needed is to give the indicated points to each question and total them. A score below 7 shows stress incontinence. Above 7 indicates treatment in the URGE electrostimulation mode when using stim devices such as the Kegel8 - Results Within Weeks, Neurotrac Pelvitone or the Neurotrac Incontinence, set in the URGE programme. (PO2) Neurotrac Incontinence, or the Neurotrac Pelvitone.

Question Points Do you feel urgency before leaking?
No (0), Some (1), Strong (2)

Do you leak when lifting something heavy or in other strenuous situations?
Yes (0), Even without strenuous activity (2)

Do you leak when doing something strenuous, or seconds afterwards?
At the same time (0), seconds after (2)

What quantity of urine leaks?
A little (0), moderate amount (1), a large amount (2)

Can you interrupt urination without leaking?
Yes (1), No (2)

Do you feel pain when urinating?
No (0), Yes (2)

Do you feel strong urgency in stressful situations?
No (0), Fairly strong (1), Yes (2)

How many times per day do you urinate?
5 times (0), 6-7 times (1), 8 or more times (2)

How many times do you urinate at night?
0-1 times (0), 2-3 times (1), 4 or more (2)

Have you had medication for urinary infections?
0-1 times (0), 2 or more times (1), chronic (2)

If the total is less than 7, stress incontinence is most likely.

Most women with higher scores will respond quickly to electrostimulation with the Kegel8 - Results Within Weeks, Neurotrac Pelvitone or the Neurotrac Incontinence, set in the URGE programme. (PO2)

Causes of Fecal Incontinence

Fecal or bowel incontinence is the loss of normal control over bowel movements, causing stool to be unexpectedly released from the rectum. This problem affects as many as five million people in the United States. Bowel incontinence is more common in women than men and can range from a small leakage of stool while passing gas to complete loss of bowel control.

Causes of fecal incontinence

There are many causes of fecal incontinence. The condition occurs when something is wrong within the complex mechanisms of the body that maintain continence. Continence depends on functioning muscles and nerves in and around the rectum and anal canal.

Common causes of fecal incontinence include diarrhea, pelvic floor dysfunction, muscle and nerve damage, loss of storage capacity and constipation.

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  Diarrhea, or loose stool, may be associated with a feeling of urgency or stool leakage due to the frequent liquid stools passing through the anal opening. Diarrhea is more difficult to control than solid stool and even people who do not suffer from fecal incontinence can have an accident when they have diarrhea.


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  Pelvic floor dysfunction - the pelvic floor plays an important role in maintaining continence and abnormalities of the pelvic floor can lead to bowel incontinence. Such dysfunction are: decreased perception of rectal sensation, decreased anal canal pressures, decreased squeeze pressure of the anal canal, impaired anal sensation, a dropping down of the rectum (rectal prolapse) and protrusion of the rectum through the vagina (rectocele). The cause of pelvic floor dysfunction is often caused by childbirth.


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  Muscle damage - bowel incontinence is most often caused by injury to one or both of the ring-like muscles at the end of the rectum called the anal sphincters. The sphincters keep stool inside. When damaged, the muscles are not strong enough to do their job, and stool can leak out. In women, the damage often happens when giving birth. Anal operations or injury to the tissue surrounding the anal region can damage the anal muscles and hinder bowel control.


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  Nerve damage - fecal incontinence can be caused by damage to the nerves that control the anal sphincters or to the nerves that sense stool in the rectum. If the nerves that control the sphincters are injured, the muscle does not work properly and incontinence can occur. Nerve damage can be caused by childbirth, a long-term habit of straining to pass stool, stroke, and diseases that affect the nerves, such as diabetes and multiple sclerosis.


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  Loss of storage capacity - normally, the rectum stretches to hold stool until you can get to a bathroom. But rectal surgery, radiation treatment, and inflammatory bowel disease can cause scarring that makes the walls of the rectum stiff and less elastic. The rectum then cannot stretch as much to hold stool, resulting in incontinence.


• 
  Constipation is one of the most common causes of fecal incontinence and can lead to a large amount of stool in the rectum, a condition called fecal impaction. A fecal impaction is a large mass of dry, hard stool that interferes with normal ability to control bowel movements. A watery stool from higher in the bowel may eventually move around the impaction and leak out.

Ways to Lead a Full Life With Incontinence

As an active person, you undoubtedly do not intend to let incontinence get in your way. Many Australians suffer from this condition; a great number of them learn that getting on with life is perfectly possible and rather easy to do. The trick is setting a routine that includes the handy tips outlined below. By incorporating the use of well designed incontinence products and mobility equipment into your life, you too can boost the effectiveness of these tips, allowing you to live your life to the fullest.

Tip #1: Avoid Triggers -

Many different drinks and food are shown to cause the effects of incontinence. Avoiding these items or limiting their use can help you to gain better control over this condition. Some of these triggers include alcohol, caffeine, carbonated beverages, and spicy or acidic foods.

Tip #2: Kegel Exercises -

If you have never heard of Kegel exercises before, ask your doctor about them. They are very simple to do, and can help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles - in turn, reducing the occurrence of incontinence. They require no special type of equipment and can be performed absolutely any where at all. Your physician can advise you on how to effectively perform this exercise to help with incontinence.

Tip #3: Remain Active -

Many people have the instinct to stay put when dealing with incontinence. After all, going out and about might make them feel vulnerable. Sadly, many people become prisoners of their incontinence. Luckily, there are many phenomenal incontinence products available today. Using these allows people to maintain an active lifestyle which includes plenty of exercise. In addition to helping overall health, regular exercise promotes a healthy weight which can help lessen the severity of incontinence.

Tip #4: Keep It Hygienic -

Keeping as clean as possible is a good strategy for reigning in incontinence, and has the added bonus of allowing a person to feel their best. Well designed incontinence products are a hugely beneficial way of maintaining personal hygiene during the day and night. Selecting products with the proper absorbency can help keep you clean and dry. This increases your confidence and may lessen the severity of incontinence in general.

Tip #5: Remain Upbeat -

Having a positive attitude is vitally important in all aspects of life - incontinence is no exception. It is critical not to allow incontinence to drag you down or ruin your positive attitude. Using mobility equipment and different types of incontinence products can help you keep your thinking upbeat and positive. Remember that you are capable of enjoying life, no matter what it throws at you. Understand incontinence for what it is: a natural part of aging, and something that can be dealt with gracefully.

Choosing Products For Incontinence

Incontinence can be an embarrassing problem no matter what the age of the person afflicted. Learning to manage incontinence is essential for maintaining dignity and self-esteem. A key issue in management is learning how to choose a product and achieve a proper fit.

Most people are not aware that there is much more to choose from than the limited selection at the local pharmacy or grocery store. There is a wide variety of products available online designed for every size, shape, and gender. Access to more product choices allows the individual to find a style that feels comfortable and works well for them, reducing the worry of accidents.

The following is a summary of the general types of products available. Many products are going to have additional features that set them apart, so it is important to fully read the description of the product being purchased. Pads are made to be worn inside regular underwear.

Belted undergarments are a large pad with a belted waistband attached.

Pull-ups/protective underwear pull on and off like regular underwear.

Briefs open up like a diaper and have tabs to secure the fit.

How do I decide which product to wear?

The first step in choosing a product is determining what level of protection is needed. In general, pads and belted undergarments are designed for light to moderate protection. Pull-ups/protective underwear are best for moderate to heavy needs and briefs are best for heavy to overnight protection.

The second step is to consider between disposable and reusable products. Disposables are convenient and require less initial investment. Reusables can feel more natural and are more economical in the long run.

The final step is selecting the appropriate size. Poorly fitting products can cause discomfort and leaks. Every manufacturer has a different sizing scale for their products. It is best to measure the waist/hip size needed and match it to the product description. Do not assume that a medium for one product is the same as for another.

When trying a new product or purchasing products for the first time, it is best to try smaller packages and a variety, if resources permit. If your first purchase does not meet your needs - try a different product. Then when you find something that works well, you can consider purchasing in bulk for a better deal. Remember you are shopping for a lifetime of comfort and freedom. Do not get discouraged in the search for a product that works for you!

Best Adult Diapers for Fecal Incontinence

Finding the best adult diapers for fecal incontinence comes down your personal preference. If you like a diaper that is extra absorbent and has odor protection, it is best to go with the Abena brand of diapers. They provide not only a great barrier to capture any fecal manner, but also come with great odor shield help.

One thing to consider while buying the right incontinence supplies is to consider the air flow. Will you have plenty of air flow to your genitals? If you do not, you can end up with a rash. Rash can be caused in adults who have one of two issue; fecal incontinence or urinary incontinence. Diaper rash is a form of dermatitis which is important to know if you are learning the basics of rash prevention. If diaper rash is not dealt with at a very early stage, it can quickly develop into large sores. These open wounds on the body can be the point of infection of numerous microbes or viruses. It is important to understand the seriousness of the situation that can arise from untreated diaper rash in adults without immediate attention or even better preventive action.

If you experience pinching of the diaper or you end up with a rash, it may be a problem due to wearing wrong size diaper. If the size is not carefully fit to the person wearing it, he or she may develop rashes immediately. The wrong size generally means that there is almost a guarantee that there will be chaffing on the skin. There are many other components to this issue to be taken into consideration. For example, size can change with many patients. Depending on the patient, it is quite possible that weight gain or loss can happen at a surprising rate. When this is a problem, it is important to reassess the size that the patient is wearing to ensure a good fit.

Other problems that are commonly encountered include chemical sensitivity. Many products use chemicals such as dyes and perfumes that are surprisingly irritating to the skin in some people. While this problem is not as common as getting the wrong size, it is one of the more common problems. Skin exposure to such irritants should be kept to a minimum. Often these patients are able to find washable incontinence products that have been proven to be compatible with their skin sensitivities and they can also be cleaned with detergents after using them. In these cases, sometimes there is a need for added protection which can be solved by layering the diapers. Thus, when choosing adult diapers it is important to plan for these problems.

As with small children, it is very important for adults who have incontinence problems to change their diapers as soon as possible after an incident. This is due to the fact that moist diapers rubbing against the skin are a huge factor in causing adult rash. Many times persons who are in need of adult diapers are unable to care for themselves by changing out their diaper. In these cases there needs to be a caregiver who is responsible and present at all times, or at least there needs to be a system in which the caregiver can come as soon as possible.

When making a change it is very important to ensure that the skin is completely clean, for obvious reasons. However, it is also important to ensure that the skin is completely dry before putting on the undergarments. Prevention of skin problems caused by adult diapers is a very important aspect of care for those with incontinence issues. This is not only for comfort reasons, but also for very important medical reasons. As mentioned previously, it is very common for problems to arise in untreated rashes that can be a serious detriment to health. Thus, it is important to ensure that the right size is chosen and kept up to date. It is also important to choose products with few dyes or scents. Following these simple tips can help you to find the best adult diapers for fecal incontinence.

Incontinence Pants and Products For Men

Most men find that incontinence pants, pads, and products made specifically for the male anatomy provide the best combination of comfort, security, and protection. Here are some of the basic types available.

Stretch briefs with permanent pads: these garments are made of stretchy knit material and are designed to look and feel very much like ordinary underwear, but they have an absorbent pad sewn in. They are washable and reusable. This style is very discreet, offering security with an absolute minimum of bulk. For men with occasional light or stress incontinence, these may be a good option.

Briefs or boxer shorts with removable pads: Sometimes referred to as pocket briefs or pouch pants, these garments are basically underwear with a special pocket for holding removable pads. Most of these garments are made to be worn with a specific matching pad, some of which have a waterproof backing for additional protection. Depending on the brand, pads may be available in a variety of absorbency levels. This style is not bulky and can be worn with close fitting slacks with no problem.

Briefs with removable liners: The next step up in leak protection, these washable, reusable garments look like regular underwear and are made of stretchy material, but are designed to be worn over a removable absorbent liner that covers more of the body than a pad would. Liners may be flat or contoured, and come in both disposable and reusable versions. Disposable liners generally have a waterproof backing. Though somewhat bulkier than briefs with pads, this combination can easily be worn under close fitting clothing and provides substantial protection. With the right liners may be suitable for light, moderate, and even heavy incontinence.

Disposable briefs: These garments can offer excellent protection with outstanding convenience. Though many disposables are meant for unisex use, some brands make styles designed specifically for men. They are available in a range of sizes and absorbency levels. They are generally somewhat bulkier than reusable stretch briefs or boxers, but can still be easily worn under everyday clothing.

Waterproof pants: Made of plastic, vinyl, rubber, or other waterproof material, these garments are worn over underwear or adult diapers. They come in a wide variety of styles, including some that have drop-front flaps for easy access to pads or liners. Some also feature open side seams that close with snaps or velcro, which can benefit men with limited mobility. Used in combination with a brief/pad system, briefs with liners, or adult diapers, waterproof pants can provide the maximum in leak protection. They are generally cut to be roomy, in order to accommodate layering underneath, so they may add some bulk. Most modern waterproof pants are made of materials especially chosen to be "rustle free" and discreet.

Managing Incontinence in the Elderly

Incontinence is not often something that just goes away. If you are caring for an elderly person who has incontinence, you should be prepared to deal with it for the long term. The right products can be extremely beneficial in such a situation; read on to find out how to use them for the best results.

Keeping Them Comfortable -

If the person who you are caring for has chronic incontinence, your goal should be managing the condition as much as possible. To that end, keeping them comfortable - and their living environment clean - is essential. There are many great incontinence aids out there that will help you handle the situation more easily. A few of the essentials include:

Adult Diapers - Without a doubt, adult diapers are the best investment that an incontinent person can make. However, what works for one person may not work for another. Help the person who you are caring for to find the right fit by buying a wide variety of styles and designs. Ideally, the adult diapers should be comfortable and effective - in other words, they should draw moisture away from the body while preventing leaks.

Absorbent Pads - For the most part, adult diapers should be more than sufficient. Still, it never hurts to be extra careful. Most people have a favourite sofa or chair; line those places with absorbent pads so that the underlying upholstery doesn't become soiled. That way, your patient's living area will stay clean and odour-free.

Waterproof Bedding - Night-time poses special issues for incontinent patients. Be sure to invest in quality, overnight adult diapers. Additionally, you should outfit the bed with topnotch waterproof bedding. A mattress will be rendered unusable when it is soiled upon time and time again. Waterproof bedding shields the underlying mattress, keeping it safe and clean.

A Focus on Hygiene -

With the addition of making patients aware of the usefulness of the various incontinence aids, personal hygiene should be emphasised. As a caregiver, part of your duties includes keeping your patient clean and comfortable. Therefore, you should always take care of accidents and other mishaps right away. Be sure to get the patient clean and dry first, then focus on cleaning any areas that have been affected. Keep moist towelettes handy for small accidents, and be sure to throw soiled bedding, clothing and other items in the wash immediately. For best results, you should soak such items for a while prior to running through the washing machine. Finally, be sure to dispose of adult diapers and pads hygienically and promptly.

What Are the Best Adult Diapers?

If you are trying to find a way to manage your incontinence you may be looking for an adult diaper. However, today there are more diapers for adults in the market then ever before. Sites that offer adult incontinence products can have even dozens of them and other incontinence supplies to choose from. This can make finding the right diaper for adults more difficult as you sort through the choices. However, there are some tips that can help as well as real world reviews of certain brands of adult diapers. Here is what you need to know to answer the question- What are the best adult diapers?

The first thing that anyone who is shopping for an adult diaper should know is that there is no one right product for everyone. The diaper that you ultimately choose will have to fit you, provide the right level of absorbency, and work well with your lifestyle. That is why it is so important to do the necessary research before choosing one. In addition, it can also be helpful to try several different samples of adult diapers. One of the best things about certain incontinence products is that you can purchase samples from some lines and try them out before committing your money to an incontinence product that you may not end up liking or worse yet using. It should also be noted that there are samples available in other adult incontinence products such as incontinence pads and other incontinence supplies.

However, if you are looking for reviews on certain products that information is available. Keep in mind that while you will find reviews for most brands of adult diapers they are only the testimonial of other users. You should read them with an open mind and consider how they might apply to your situation. Two of the most commonly used brands are Attends and Abena. Both lines of adult diapers have consistently received good reviews. Here is an overview of reviews for those adult diapers-

• Attends - Users of this type of adult diapers have consistently commented that Attends is very discreet under normal clothing. This can be a highly beneficial for the person with incontinence who wants to continue working, traveling, socializing, and doing all other types of normal activities. In addition, Attends diapers are consistently reviewed with at least a good or higher rating for absorbency. Users of this product have also commented that the Attends diaper has secure fastenings. Any negative comments on this item had to do with having a limited size range and the fact that they can be hard to find.

• Abena - One of the most commonly praised aspects of this product had to do with the fact that they are easy to put on and take off. This is especially important for anyone who is managing xx but has mobility issues. This could also be a factor if someone is receiving care. In addition, several users of this type of diaper like the fact that they stays in place and makes them feel secure in the xx protection that they are getting. Finally, many users rate this type of diaper high for the environmentally friendly way that they are manufactured. Abena diapers are made according to the highest green standards of manufacturing. Complaints about this type of adult diaper had to do with a lack of absorbency. Many felt that fasten on type of adult diaper was far less absorbent then the pull on-pull off style.

Managing Elderly Incontinence at Night

Caregivers have to contend with elderly incontinence round the clock. On many occasions, you can really get frustrated and stressed while you are maintaining the dignity of the aged person. It is not his wish to wet the bed. Believe me, they feel very bad and helpless about it. It can lead to low self-esteem. The word incontinence means losing or having no control over your bowel. As the person responsible for an aged person's care, such an experience takes you back to when you had to take care of an infant. There is a lot of cleaning up to do, not forgetting the likelihood of the person getting injured as they rush to the toilet.

All is not lost, however. Elderly incontinence at night can be managed. As a caregiver, here are some tips on managing an elderly person's incontinence:

• If the restrooms are located at some distance from the bedroom, ensure that there are no obstacles along the way. By reaching the restroom quickly, an elderly person will make it just in time before the bladder releases itself. Have the area fitted with sufficient lights and leave them on at night. Alternatively, install motion sensitive lights that automatically switch on when someone passes nearby. Another modification would be to raise the toilet seat so that your loved one does not have to struggle so much.

• Rather than making your elderly parent walk all the way to the washrooms, consider the option of buying a portable toilet. The urge to relieve your bowels most often comes with that of visiting the toilet. In the sudden haste to make it to the restroom, this is where accidents happen. The portable toilet can be placed somewhere within reach and emptied in the morning.

• Stock up on adult diapers and other products that help to maintain incontinence at night. Buy diapers that are disposable or re-usable as the case may be. Talk to the elderly person kindly and explain the need for them to use diapers. Some may reject them outright as it can be viewed as an attempt at lowering their dignity. Alternatively, you can spread a sheet of polythene paper between the bottom sheet and the mattress. There are also mattress protectors that can be used in preventing a mattress from getting wet.

• Incontinence at night can make an elderly person feel embarrassed. It might even lead to depression. Show your loved one that you understand the condition and will do everything within your ability to assist him or her. Introduce him to incontinence pads and diapers. Show them how to wear the diaper and to remove them. Remind them to wear the diapers at night as they will aid in protecting them from bed wetting embarrassment. During your small talk, tell your aged parent how proud you are of him or her. Give words of encouragement emphasizing that she is not the only one suffering from incontinence.

• Reduce the intake of fluids at night. This will lead to fewer visits to the washroom. At the same time, ensure that your loved one has emptied their bowels just a few minutes before retiring to bed.

Elderly incontinence at night can further be dealt with by seeking the assistance of a medical practitioner. Arrange to visit a doctor and discuss the problem. He may recommend some changes in diet among a range of other treatment options. You can also take it upon yourself to be waking up an aged person at certain intervals during the night in order to relieve their bowels.

Incontinence in Dogs - Tips For Helping Your Elderly Dog

Is incontinence in dogs becoming a problem in your home? Perhaps you've noticed that your elderly dog has been leaving puddles of urine behind when she gets up from a nap. She may even be dripping urine all the time. Dog incontinence may become a problem for an aging dog. What causes this problem, and what can you do to help?

What Causes Dogs To Become Incontinent?

There are a number of reasons this may become a problem in your older pet. The most common reason for a female dog is that her estrogen levels are going down as she gets older. Less estrogen leads to less muscle tone, especially in her bladder. This is more than likely the problem if the only time you notice the problem is when she's sleeping or relaxed.

For male dogs, it's more than likely that canine bladder stones are the problem, not declining hormone levels. Your vet will want to rule out any possible physical problems before assuming that he's incontinent due to lower testosterone levels.

Canine urinary tract infections are also a very common cause of incontinence in older pets. Cystitis in dogs causes your buddy to need to urinate more frequently. Due to irritation in her bladder, she just may not be able to hold it long enough to get outside. If she's drinking more water than she normally does, this is another sign of a canine bladder infection. Blood may also be present in her urine, although you may not notice it.

Canine diabetes, Cushing's disease in dogs, and kidney failure can all cause incontinence in dogs. Cancer is on the rise in older pets, so it's wise to be aware of the warning signs of this disease. If you see that your pet is bleeding from the urinary tract, take her to the vet right away for a check-up. The sooner any of these diseases are diagnosed, the better the outcome is.

Natural Remedies For Dogs Can Prevent Dog Incontinence

As your pet gets older, canine incontinence can become a problem. If your vet has ruled out anything serious like canine diabetes, or bladder cancer in dogs, you may want to think about putting her on a natural remedy for pets that helps to maintain urinary tract and bladder health.

You'll want to look for a remedy that contains berberis, also known as barberry. This herb has a restorative effect on your pet's bladder and urinary tract. Plus it gives her immune system a boost, which will help her to fight off canine cystitis.

Uva ursi has a long history of use in humans for bladder problems. This herb is helpful in maintaining normal ph levels in the bladder, which helps to prevent urinary tract infections. It works well with pets, too.

The homeopathic remedies Cantharis and Staphysagris are useful for maintaining bladder health.

You'll want to find a remedy formulated especially for pets, not people. It's best to deal with a company with a great reputation for providing the high quality pet products.

Help prevent incontinence in dogs from becoming a problem for your aging pet. If your old friend is already showing signs of incontinence, don't wait to start her on a good quality natural remedy for pets right away.

Rubber Incontinence Pants - They're Not What You Think They Are

If you are exploring your options for incontinence products and you run across an offer for rubber incontinence pants, don't dismiss them out of hand as the same thing that children wear over diapers. These products have come a long way in the past few years and this selection of incontinence protection may be the perfect solution for your particular situation.

For starters, gone are the heavy rubber pants that did not breathe and made noise every time you moved your body. Today these products are made with light weight PVC and not only breathe but are rustle free as well. These products offer the ultimate in leakage protection and are an ideal solution if you spend a great deal of time without access to a bathroom such as extensive travel. Obviously they work just as well if you have a problem with continence when you sleep.

Rubber pants are designed to work in tandem with disposable pads and can absorb all the fluid even from the most severe case on incontinence. The pads are held securely in place within the pants making embarrassing accidents a thing of the past.

These pants are also built with comfort in mind. In the past these products were bulky, noisy and could become uncomfortably hot and even encourage rashes to appear. Today's thin PVC fabrics are soft and incredibly comfortable not to mention far more discreet when worn under clothing.

Of course one of the biggest advantages of these pants is the fact that they are washable and reusable which makes managing your condition far more affordable.

When you're considering which product is the best for you be sure to keep rubber incontinence pants in mind. If you still have questions as to how well they work or just how good they are, there are tons of resources available for you to research. A quick call to your physician is a great place to start as he or she will be well informed on all the products available.

Adult Diapers - Incontinence in Women

Did you know women experience urinary incontinence or bladder leakage twice as often as men? The reason is mainly because of the differences between the male and female urinary anatomy. Urinary incontinence can range from annoying to debilitating, from a few drops to inability to hold a full bladder. Fortunately adult diapers and pads are readily available these days.

Women have many different types of urine loss. Stress, urge, overactive bladder, functional, and overflow are the most common. Some women suffer from combination or mixed types of incontinence. Transient incontinence is another type, however, it is temporary.

Stress incontinence is leakage of small amounts of urine while coughing, sneezing, exercising, and even laughing. Stress incontinence is treatable and can be eliminated, usually with surgery. Typically pads with adhesive strips work very well for stress incontinence until such time as medical treatment is available.

Urge incontinence is unexpected leakage of large amounts of urine occurring at anytime, even while sleeping. Urge incontinence may be caused by nerve problems or damage resulting in bladder spasms or contractions. Many diseases as well as stroke and injury may cause urge incontinence.

Overactive bladder is a condition where bladder muscles contract without warning. Urinating often and urgently as well as a strong sudden urge to urinate followed by gushing and leakage are often symptoms of an overactive bladder.

Functional incontinence may be caused by medical issues that result in an inability to think rationally, communicate, or move independently preventing the person from reaching a toilet.

Although rare in women, overflow incontinence occurs when the bladder doesn't empty properly, causing leakage of small amounts of urine.

Stress and urge incontinence frequently take place together in women. This combination or mixed incontinence is the most common type of lack of bladder control in women.

Transient incontinence is temporary bladder leakage due to medication, urinary tract infection (UTI), even sever constipation.

Each type of urine loss can be managed effectively with adult diapers when medical treatment is not an option or the condition is temporary. Disposable adult diapers are available in several styles. Disposable underwear or pull-ups are perfect for light to moderate urine loss. Diapers or briefs are more absorbent and ideal for moderate to heavy urine loss and have Velcro tabs to hold secure. Belted undergarments are just that: a belt with a pad. Pads with adhesive strips are good for light bladder leakage.

Purchasing incontinence products online is discreet, private, secure, and can be less expensive than traditional retail sources.

Penile Pouches For Male Incontinence

Penile Pouches are a form of external catheter used for the management of male incontinence. Though these devices aren't right for everyone, in some cases they can be a good choice for  comfortable, secure protection.

Standard external catheters, sometimes referred to as penile sheaths or condom catheters, are condom-like flexible devices that fit over the penis and are connected to a collection bag with flexible tubing. The penis sheath is held in place either with medical quality adhesive, which may be built into the device or applied before the device is put on, or with straps.

The collection bag is generally worn on the leg, held in place with straps.

Though standard external catheters are a good incontinence solution for many, in some cases physical conditions prohibit their use. Penile retraction, common among the elderly, is typical of those cases. Retraction of the penis makes it difficult or impossible to adequately secure an external catheter, and this makes the device likely to leak or come off all together. In cases like this, a penile pouch may be a workable solution.

Rather than a condom-like sheath that is secured along the length of the penis, a pouch system features an ostomy-like pouch that is secured at the base of the penis. Some pouch systems feature a specially designed adhesive patch which is secured directly to the glans. These devices have a connector opening for flexible tubing, which funnels urine into a collection bag.

Some manufacturers also include a cut-to-fit skin barrier that can be adjusted to the right size for the wearer, and some models also feature a drain valve that allows for emptying the collection bag.

Advantages:

- For men with penile retraction, pouch systems make an external catheter a feasible option.

- These systems are appropriate for home care.

- A pouch system can remain in place and keep the wearer dry for relatively long period, providing comfortable protection for up to 12 hours. This makes them a good solution for overnight use.

- These systems are more comfortable, less complicated, and less restrictive than indwelling catheters.

- Properly applied and changed frequently, these systems can offer a high level of dryness and leak protection.

Disadvantages:

- It can be difficult for men with limited mobility and/or manual dexterity to position and secure the pouch, so caretaker assistance may be required.

- Patients with dementia or confusion may try to remove the device, which could lead to skin injury.

- There is a possibility of skin problems, including abrasions, tears, and allergic reactions, as well as a possibility of penile edema.

Incontinence Pants and Products - What You Need to Know Before You Buy

Modern technology is providing an ever-increasing selection of incontinence pants and incontinence briefs, along with protective pads, adult cloth diapers, odor removers, and other adult incontinence products and supplies. More choices makes dealing with adult incontinence easier, but it's important to buy the product that really suits your needs.

Millions of adults of all ages suffer from incontinence, which can be a difficult and life-disrupting condition. For most people, incontinence pants used either alone or in combination with pads, diapers, and other incontinence products can provide both security and comfort.

Choose the products that match your needs

Whether incontinence is a minor occasional problem or a severe permanent condition, there are products that can help. But getting the maximum benefit depends on selecting the ones that match your needs best. Some of the factors that should be considered include the following:

- The severity of the problem  Most incontinence pants and briefs are designed specifically to address the needs of a particular level of incontinence severity.

- Mobility   Incontinence can be particularly difficult to manage for people with limited mobility, for whom standing or pulling standard briefs up and down is difficult or impossible. If mobility is a problem, look for drop-front styles that allow for removal and changing of pads with a minimum of effort.

- Skin sensitivity  Keeping the skin as dry as possible is absolutely crucial for people with sensitive skin, who may develop rashes or skin conditions if exposed to wetness. This may be a particularly important factor for people with limited mobility. Look for products that use removable, disposable pads that can be changed frequently and easily.

- Time, place, and situation  For maximum efficiency, protection, and comfort, consider using different products for different situations. For example, many people find pull-up briefs with either a permanent or removable pad best for day wear, while a combination of briefs and waterproof pants provide maximum security overnight or at any time when access to toilet facilities is limited.

Disposable Incontinence Products - Convenient Protection and Odor Control

If you suffer from incontinence then you already know how important it is to manage the condition in order to continue to live the active lifestyle you enjoy. You probably also know that there are a number of items available to help you with this task including disposable incontinence products.

Disposable products certainly have their place. While many people find incontinence pants to be more comfortable than disposable pads, pads offer the benefit of frequent and fast clean up. With disposable incontinence products you can quickly change out a soiled pad for a clean one which keeps you drier and also lessens the chance of any embarrassing odor.

And let's face it, odor can be a problem. Nobody wants that embarrassing smell lingering on their clothing. Some incontinence pants come with limited odor control but disposable incontinence products get rid of the odor by simply disposing the source of the smell.

There are some things you can do to lessen the aroma coming from your urine. The old saying "you are what you eat" applies here. Certain foods and drinks can pass on their distinctive smell to your urine. Caffeine, garlic, onions, asparagus and tuna fish are the principal culprits. Avoid them and you will avoid their scent.

People with incontinence often try to limit their fluid intake thinking that will lessen the number of times that they will have to use the bathroom. If you do not fully hydrate, your urine will become concentrated and the odor will be stronger when you do go. Just like the foods that pass on their scent, there are other foods that cut the smell like cranberry juice and most citrus juices. Drink enough fluids to ensure that your body is fully hydrated.

While you want to use what you are most comfortable with, consider disposable incontinence products as a means to keep dry and odor free with a minimum of hassle and expense.