As you age, you are likely to develop bladder issues such as leakage with urgency. Urine leakage may prevent you from enjoying your favorite activities to avoid embarrassment. Fortunately, the specialist at Park Avenue Urogynecology offers treatments for problems with bladder control in Upper East Side to help you enjoy your life without shame from urine leakage.
What bladder control problems can you develop?
Bladder leakage can occur due to several health problems such as weakness of your pelvic muscles. It may also indicate underlying health conditions such as urinary tract infections, neurologic disorders, diabetes, and bladder stones. Loss of bladder control is medically known as urinary incontinence. If urinary incontinence is left untreated, it can deteriorate, leading to urine leakage or an intense urge to urinate when you sneeze or cough. Although this embarrassing disorder is common among older adults, it is not inevitable. You can consult your doctor about the available non-invasive treatments.
When should you see your doctor concerning bladder control issues?
If your urinary incontinence prevents you from enjoying fun activities such as sports, playing with your children, and sex, you may need a comprehensive physical evaluation. You may need an assessment if you are forced to use diapers or pads because of urine leakage. If you have difficulty emptying your full bladder, you should inform your doctor. If this disorder is left untreated, it may cause irreversible damage to your kidney. Dr. Kwo conducts a thorough physical exam and reviews your medical and family history to determine the root cause of your urinary incontinence.
How can you treat urinary incontinence?
After determining the cause of your loss of bladder control, Dr. Kwon may recommend several treatments to restore your bladder function. Your treatment plan depends on the type, severity, and cause of urinary incontinence. If your leakage is due to an underlying condition, he may address that problem to avoid other life-threatening complications such as kidney failure. Your doctor may begin minimally invasive treatments and graduate to surgical options if those treatments do not achieve the expected results. Dr. Kwon may recommend the following treatments:
- Bladder Botox injections
Bladder botox injection is an effective treatment for urgency incontinence and loose bladder. Your doctor may recommend this treatment when exercise, medications, and behavioral therapies fail. It temporarily relaxes your bladder muscle spasms and can last for about a year with negligible side effects.
- Pelvic floor rehabilitation
Dr, Kwon may also refer you to a pelvic floor physical therapist for conservative treatment of urinary incontinence. This treatment relieves your pelvic floor dysfunction symptoms by strengthening the muscles. Pelvic floor exercises also prevent the progression of urinary incontinence.
- Sling surgery
Sling surgery refers to a slightly invasive outpatient treatment that your doctor may perform daily to treat loss of bladder control, especially during activities. It is FDA-approved and guarantees excellent results with minor complications. If a sling surgery fails, Dr. Kwon may recommend other anti-incontinence surgeries.
If urinary incontinence affects the quality of your life, contact the Park Avenue Urogynecology office or make an online appointment for diagnosis and treatment.
