Types of Male Incontinence
- Stress incontinence, caused by weak pelvic and sphincter muscles
- Urge incontinence (overactive bladder), caused by damaged or irritable nerves
- Overflow incontinence, that results when an individual is unable to empty the bladder
- Temporary or reversible incontinence, related to conditions, such as:
Causes of Male Incontinence
For the urinary system to do its job, muscles and nerves must work together to hold urine in the bladder, and then release it at the right time. Babies are not born with the ability to control urination. As children grow, they learn to interpret nerve signals, and develop the muscle control required to stay dry. In children between the ages of 5 and 10, some incontinence may result from limited bladder capacity, or delayed development of the nerve pathways that signal a full or emptying bladder. This form of incontinence fades away as the bladder grows and nerves become mature.
Other types of nerve problems, however, can cause urination problems that are more difficult to overcome. Prostate problems can also cause male incontinence
(see Causes of Male Incontinence).
Diagnosing Male Incontinence
The first step in treating male incontinence is to see a doctor. He or she will give you a physical exam and ask about your medical history. The doctor will ask about your symptoms and the medicines you use. He or she will want to know if you have been sick recently, or if you've had surgery. Your doctor also may do a number of tests. These might include:
- Urine tests
- Blood tests
- Tests that measure how well you empty your bladder.
In addition, your doctor may ask you to keep a daily diary of when you urinate, and when you leak urine. Your pattern of urinating and urine leakage may suggest which type of incontinence you have.
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