The subject of Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI) is a truly confounding and complex one. It refers to the condition where one experiences an unintentional leakage of urine due to sudden pressure on the bladder and urethra. This sudden pressure can cause the sphincter muscles to open briefly, leading to urinary leakage. Even mild cases of SUI can be quite distressing, as they can be triggered by activities such as exercise, sneezing, laughing, or coughing. However, more severe cases of SUI can even cause urine leakage during less forceful activities such as standing up, walking, or bending over. This can result in urinary “accidents” ranging from a few drops of urine to enough to soak through one’s clothes.
It is a well-known fact that SUI is a common bladder problem that affects women more frequently than men. However, it is still an incredibly baffling and mysterious issue. Furthermore, another common bladder issue is Overactive Bladder (OAB) or Urgency Urinary Incontinence (UUI). OAB can cause people to feel an urgent, “gotta go” sensation that they cannot control. In some cases, people with OAB can also experience urinary leakage when they feel this sudden urge. The main difference between SUI and OAB is anatomical, with SUI being a urethral issue while OAB is a bladder problem.
In SUI cases, the urethra cannot withstand the sudden increase in pressure. On the other hand, in OAB cases, the bladder spasms and squeezes uncontrollably. If you’re interested in learning more about OAB, we invite you to visit our OAB web page.
It is essential to note that many people who suffer from SUI also have OAB. When both forms of urinary incontinence occur together, it is referred to as “Mixed Incontinence.”
Approximately, one in three women will experience Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI) at some point during their lives. Moreover, the occurrence of urinary incontinence tends to increase with age. Specifically, over half of women who suffer from SUI also have Overactive Bladder (OAB).
In fact, research shows that about one-third (or 1 out of 3) of women aged 60 and above may experience urine leakage, while approximately half (or 1 out of 2) of women aged 65 and above may experience this issue.
On the other hand, when it comes to men with urinary incontinence, it is more common to have OAB rather than SUI. In men who do have SUI, it is often due to prostate cancer surgery, pelvic nerve injury, or damage.
It is crucial to raise awareness about these conditions and provide support to those who may be struggling with them. Therefore, if you or a loved one is experiencing urinary incontinence, we encourage you to seek medical advice and learn more about potential treatment options.
Talk to Your Doctor About SUI
#1 Be Prepared
To make the most out of your appointment regarding Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI), it is helpful to take some time beforehand to prepare. Consider what you want to say to your doctor and write down any questions or concerns you have about SUI.
By doing so, you can stay focused during your appointment and ensure that you cover all of your concerns. It can also help ease any anxiety you may have about discussing your condition with your healthcare provider.
Some questions and concerns you may want to address during your appointment could include:
• What is causing my SUI?
• What treatments are available for SUI?
• Are there any lifestyle changes I can make to manage my SUI symptoms?
• What are the potential side effects of SUI treatments?
• How long should I expect to wait before seeing improvement in my SUI symptoms?
• Are there any additional tests or procedures that may be necessary to diagnose or treat my SUI?
By adequately preparing for your scheduled consultation and engaging in meaningful dialogue with your healthcare provider, you can adopt a proactive stance in effectively managing the symptoms of your stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and ultimately enhancing your overall well-being.
#2 Find the Right Time and Place
To ease a more comfortable and productive talk, it is advisable to carefully select a convenient time and a setting that is conducive to discussing your SUI condition without inhibitions. Moreover, scheduling a separate appointment with your healthcare provider, exclusively dedicated to discussing your SUI concerns, instead of bringing it up during a routine check-up, can help you to receive individualized guidance and ample time to thoroughly address all your apprehensions.
#3 Be Honest
When talking to your doctor about SUI, it is important to be honest and open about your symptoms. Your doctor needs to understand the severity and frequency of your symptoms so that your doctor can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
#4. Don’t Be Embarrassed
It is completely normal to feel embarrassed or ashamed about discussing SUI. However, remember that your doctor is a medical professional and has likely dealt with similar cases before. They are there to help you, not judge you.
#5 Ask for Referrals
If your doctor is unable to provide the treatment you need, don’t be afraid to ask for referrals to specialists who can help. Your doctor may refer you to a urologist, gynecologist, or pelvic floor therapist who can provide additional support.
#6 Learn About Treatment Options
There are many different treatment options available for SUI, including pelvic floor exercises, medication, and surgery. Ask your doctor about the pros and cons of each option and which one may be best suited for your individual needs.
#7 Follow Up
After discussing your SUI with your healthcare provider, it is essential to follow up with them as needed. Keep track of any changes in your symptoms or condition and let your doctor know if you have any questions or concerns.
Your doctor may recommend certain lifestyle changes, exercises, or medical treatments to manage your SUI symptoms effectively. Be sure to follow their recommendations and report any changes in your condition to your doctor.
In conclusion, although discussing SUI with your doctor can be a challenging conversation, it is vital for receiving the help you need. By being prepared, honest, and proactive, you can work with your healthcare provider to find the best treatment plan for your individual needs.
So, if you are experiencing SUI, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice and take the necessary steps to manage your symptoms. With the right treatment and support, you can regain control of your bladder and improve your quality of life.
If you’re suffering from stress urinary incontinence (SUI), don’t suffer in silence any longer. Contact Desert Sky Urology today to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced urologists. Our team specializes in diagnosing and treating SUI using the latest techniques and technology. Take control of your life and regain your confidence. Call us now to learn more at 480-933-5557
