OverviewUrinary incontinence — the loss of bladder control — is a common and often embarrassing problem. The severity ranges from occasionally leaking urine when you cough or sneeze to having an urge to urinate that's so sudden and strong you don't get to a toilet in time. Show Though it occurs more often as people get older, urinary incontinence isn't an inevitable consequence of aging. If urinary incontinence affects your daily activities, don't hesitate to see your doctor. For most people, simple lifestyle and dietary changes or medical care can treat symptoms of urinary incontinence. SymptomsMany people experience occasional, minor leaks of urine. Others may lose small to moderate amounts of urine more frequently. Types of urinary incontinence include:
When to see a doctorYou may feel uncomfortable discussing incontinence with your doctor. But if incontinence is frequent or is affecting your quality of life, it's important to seek medical advice because urinary incontinence may:
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Urinary incontinence may also be caused by an easily treatable medical condition, such as:
Persistent urinary incontinenceUrinary incontinence can also be a persistent condition caused by underlying physical problems or changes, including:
Risk factorsFactors that increase your risk of developing urinary incontinence include:
ComplicationsComplications of chronic urinary incontinence include:
PreventionUrinary incontinence isn't always preventable. However, to help decrease your risk:
Urinary incontinence care at Mayo Clinic Dec. 17, 2021
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