Incontinenie

Incontinenie, or incontinence, is the involuntary leakage of urine or feces. It is a symptom, not a disease, and can be temporary or chronic. It may arise from medical conditions, aging, pregnancy, surgery, or medications, and it can affect daily activities and quality of life.

Urinary incontinence is commonly categorized as stress, urge, mixed, overflow, or functional. Stress incontinence occurs with coughing or lifting when pelvic floor muscles are weak. Urge incontinence involves a sudden, strong urge to void followed by leakage. Mixed combines features of both.

Fecal incontinence refers to the involuntary loss of bowel control. It ranges from occasional leakage to constant seepage and can be caused by weakened anal sphincter, nerve injury, diarrhea, constipation, or obstetric trauma.

Risk factors include age, pregnancy and childbirth, menopause or prostate surgery, obesity, chronic cough, constipation, and neurological diseases such as stroke or multiple sclerosis.

Diagnosis starts with history and physical examination, supported by urinalysis and bladder diaries. For fecal incontinence, tests such as anorectal manometry or endoanal ultrasound may be used to identify underlying causes.

Management is individualized and may combine lifestyle changes, pelvic floor exercises, bladder or bowel training, and behavioral strategies. Medications may be used for urinary symptoms, and devices or pessaries can aid some patients. Surgical options are available for selected cases and aim to restore continence and improve quality of life. Addressing stigma and encouraging timely care are important components of management.