Monday, November 23, 2009

Dealing with Incontinence

Incontinence is considered to be a taboo subject for many people, but so many people are suffering from it and as society ages their ranks will continue to grow so it is important to discuss it openly.

Almost 10 percent of Americans suffer from incontinence and two thirds of caregivers are looking after a family member with incontinence, so it's an issue of concern for them as well. The sheer number of people who suffer from this problem should help remove the stigma and help sufferers to feel less embarrassed about it.

42 percent of caregivers looking after a loved one with incontinence experience depression. Incontinence is also a common reason for placing a loved one in a nursing home.

There are several steps one should take when faced with incontinence.

The first is to speak to a doctor to find out what is causing it and if there is a treatment. Sometimes improving diet and exercise can help.

The next step is to discuss it openly with family members. This helps to get all of the issues out in the open.

Then together you should design an individualized care management program. This program will take into account the severity of the problem, as well as known issues around timing and schedules.

Finally you should select the appropriate incontinence products to help deal with the problem. Also, remember that pelvic and kegel exercises can sometimes reduce the problem. The sufferer should also reduce intake of certain foods such as tomato dishes, spicy foods, citrus, caffeine, alcohol, and chocolate. Also reducing weight or dealing with diabetes can help.