Urinary incontinence is the involuntary leakage of urine, which can range from occasional dribbles to complete loss of bladder control. It occurs when muscles or nerves responsible for controlling the bladder are weakened or damaged, affecting daily activities and quality of life.

Causes & Risk Factors

Several factors contribute to urinary incontinence including:

• Weak pelvic floor muscles due to childbirth, aging, or menopause.
• Urinary tract infections irritating the bladder.
• Nerve damage from neurological disorders.
• Enlarged prostate or prostate surgery in men.

Symptoms

• Leaking urine when coughing, sneezing or laughing.
• Urgent, frequent need to urinate.
• Dribbling or inability to hold urine until reaching a bathroom.

Diagnosis & Treatment

Diagnosis usually involves physical exam, medical history and sometimes bladder tests. Treatments may include pelvic floor exercises, bladder training, medications, lifestyle changes, or minimally invasive procedures depending on severity and cause.

Prevention & Care

Preventive steps include pelvic floor strengthening, healthy weight maintenance, avoiding bladder irritants like caffeine, and treating infections promptly.