6 Best Ways to Reduce the Impact of Urinary Incontinence in Men Naturally
INCONTINENCE AFFECTS THE QUALITY OF LIFE OF MANY MEN. HERE ARE SOME NATURAL WAYS TO REDUCE THAT IMPACT.
Urinary incontinence (UI) refers to the involuntary leakage of urine that occurs mostly in people when they age. Research shows that about 11-34% of men over the age of 65 are struggling with this bothersome issue [1].
Even though this problem is quite common, most men don’t actively search for help, but prefer to just live with the issue. And when compared to women, men are only half as likely to seek care [1]. This means that the majority of men with incontinence are suffering in silence.
We’ll discuss the impact of incontinence on a man’s quality of life and some simple, natural ways to reduce its impact.
Impact of Urinary Incontinence in Men
There are two major types of urinary incontinence: stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and urge urinary incontinence (UUI) [2]. Some men may have both, which is known as mixed urinary incontinence.
Regardless of the form of incontinence a man has, this issue can significantly affect a man’s quality of life.
Emotional impact
Urinary incontinence can change how a man views himself. This often leads to lower self-confidence and poorer self-esteem, and sometimes, even depression [1].
Financial impact
The financial burden of urinary incontinence can be significant.
The financial impact related to this problem may include at least the following:
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- Protective products, such as adult diapers, absorbent pads, and protection for bedding.
- Extra laundry and dark and special clothing.
- Special hygiene and odor control items.
- Diagnostic tests, doctor visits, medication, treatment, and medical follow-ups.
- Medications for skin infections and urinary tract infections (UTI).
- Men with incontinence may have to reduce their work hours or take early voluntary retirement [1].
- Treatment for falls.
- Increased chance of nursing home assistance in advanced age [3].
Social impact
Incontinence may cause men to withdraw from social activities due to embarrassment and inconvenience.
This can lead to fewer opportunities to spend time and interact with their family members, friends, and grandchildren. Additionally, older men with incontinence may be less able to travel or visit their friends, relatives, and children.
All these events may lead to loneliness and isolation in older age.
Impact on sex life
Studies have also found that men with urinary incontinence report a lower sex drive and increased problems with erection and orgasm [4].
How To Manage Male Incontinence Naturally
If you are experiencing symptoms of incontinence, it is very important that you speak to your doctor and seek early treatment.
Urinary incontinence isn’t your fault. And millions of other men worldwide experience similar problems.
Getting a proper diagnosis and finding the actual cause of your bladder problems can empower you to regain your bladder control and freedom.
Here are 6 best ways to naturally reduce the impact of incontinence in your life.
1. Pelvic floor exercises
Pelvic floor exercises, also known as Kegel exercises, target the muscles around your bladder. To perform this form of exercise, you’ll contract and relax your pelvic floor muscles repeatedly, which helps to strengthen them and reduce symptoms of incontinence.
2. Bladder training
Bladder training, or scheduled voiding, is a form of bladder re-education to manage urinary incontinence. You’ll use the bathroom only at specific times, as discussed with your healthcare professional.
Throughout this program, you’ll make a conscious effort to hold your pee for longer, and the main goal is to gradually extend the time interval between each visit to the bathroom.
3. Maintaining a healthy weight with a balanced diet
Being overweight can put you at a higher risk of experiencing urinary incontinence [5].
Studies have shown that weight loss can significantly improve symptoms of incontinence in patients who are overweight [5]. Getting enough exercise and adopting a healthy diet is crucial to maintaining a healthy weight.
4. Quit smoking
Smoking can worsen symptoms of incontinence and nocturia (frequently getting up to pee at night) [6]. Smokers who quit usually experience an improvement in urinary symptoms, in addition to a host of other health benefits.
Understandably, giving up smoking isn’t easy. So, it’s best that you seek advice from a healthcare professional who can recommend tips and medication to help increase your chances of successfully quitting.
5. Acupuncture
Some research has found that acupuncture can be an effective management option for urinary incontinence [7]. However, more studies are needed to confirm these findings, specifically in men.
6. Bladder supplements
Bladder supplements may help with strengthening the bladder and improving symptoms of incontinence.
The BetterMAN bladder control urinary supplement contains a holistic mix of natural herbs and ingredients that helps enhance blood circulation, modulate testosterone levels, and naturally regulate nerve and muscle function to improve your bladder control and urinary health.
Final Thoughts: Urinary Incontinence in Men
Bladder control issues can affect a person financially, emotionally, and socially. Thus, it’s crucial for men with urinary incontinence to fix such problems as early on as possible.
There is a wide range of natural methods for improving symptoms of incontinence in men, including bladder control supplements.
The BetterMAN supplement is a clinically-tested blend of natural ingredients that can help improve your urinary tract health and function. Users have reported a reduction in bathroom trips, improved bladder control, and better sleep at night (due to not having to use the bathroom) after just two months of consistent use.
Read Related Articles: Healthy Aging, Male Bladder Control Issues, Incontinence