Urinary male incontinence is a common problem that older men encounter. It involves accidental leakage of urine due to loss of bladder control. Although male incontinence isn’t life-threatening, it is often embarrassing and can impair the quality of life. While there are options such as medications and surgery to treat the male incontinence, you can also try some simple lifestyle changes to address it effectively. These aren’t as aggressive as the conventional treatment options but offer relief while being painless and cost-effective. Here are some measures you can rely on when living with male incontinence.
Bladder training
When you report the symptoms of male incontinence, the first thing your doctor would recommend is bladder training. Fortunately, it addresses the concern for many patients and they need not even go ahead with medication. You only need to make conscious efforts to actively delay your toilet trips every time you feel the urge. Gradually, you will feel your bladder growing stronger and in control. Scheduling your toilet trips is a good idea if you want to avoid urges proactively. You can urinate twice, a few minutes apart to eliminate more urine and achieve better control.
Use incontinence underwear
Another lifestyle measure that can be of great help for people suffering from this condition is the use of special underwear. With male incontinence underwear, you get reliable protection from inconvenient urinary leaks. Since these are reusable, you need not spend a fortune as with disposable products. The best thing about this product is that it is comfortable, and you can continue your routine tasks without discomfort. It helps you regain control and confidence as urinary leakage does not remain a concern.
Fluid management
Managing the intake of fluids is perhaps the best measure to deal with uncontrollable leakage of urine. The better you time your consumption, the more likely you are to control the urge. Minimize the consumption of diuretic beverages such as tea, coffee, alcohol, and aerated drinks. Opt for drinking fluids in smaller quantities several times during the day instead of gulping large amounts at once. Try to curb liquid intake in the late evening to avoid night-time leakage.
Strengthen your pelvic muscles with exercise
If you are looking for long-term relief from urinary incontinence without medication or surgery, Kegel exercises can help. These exercises can strengthen the pelvic muscles and tighten the ones in the urinary tract system as well. With regular exercise over time, you will feel the difference in terms of better control over the urge to urinate and will be able to hold for longer. You can seek guidance from your doctor or a physical therapist to know more about these exercises.
Dealing with male urinary incontinence isn’t as hard as you imagine, a little control and some lifestyle changes take you a long way. You can live a normal life without going through surgery or taking medications for the long run. Apart from these condition-specific changes, you also need to focus on an overall healthy lifestyle. Maintaining an optimal weight, leading an active lifestyle, and preventing constipation can reduce pressure on the bladder and keep it healthy and in control.
Founder & Editor-in-Chief of Pinstripe Magazine. Creative thinker and menswear designer who has been writing articles dedicated to men’s fashion, lifestyle, luxury items, home design, gear, grooming and gadgets since 1998. For info on PinstripeMag, any editorial needs or to contact me please email at marv@pinstripemag.com.
