Urologist Warns – Urinary Incontinence Is Not Just an Age Problem

Urologist Jone Verikaitė from Hila Medical Diagnostics and Treatment Center is shedding light on urinary incontinence, a condition often dismissed as an inevitable part of aging. She emphasizes that this is a misconception; incontinence affects a significant percentage of women, and while its prevalence increases with age, it is treatable at any stage. This perspective is crucial in Lithuania, where open discussion about such health issues can still be sensitive.

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It is truly a common problem – according to various studies, from several to tens of percent of women face it, and in older age, the prevalence increases even more.

Verikaitė explains that incontinence isn't a one-size-fits-all problem. It presents in various forms, most commonly stress incontinence, triggered by physical exertion like coughing or lifting, and urge incontinence, characterized by a sudden, overwhelming need to urinate. Mixed incontinence, combining both types, is also frequent. Understanding these distinctions is vital for tailoring treatment, a point that resonates with the Lithuanian healthcare system's focus on personalized patient care.

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One of the most common types is stress urinary incontinence, where urine leaks during physical exertion – when coughing, sneezing, or lifting heavier objects. Most often, this is related to weakened pelvic floor muscles or dysfunction of the sphincter muscle that closes the urethra.

The good news, according to the urologist, is that treatment options have advanced significantly. Beyond simply managing symptoms, modern medicine aims for functional recovery. This includes pharmacological treatments, interventional procedures such as Botox injections into the bladder, and surgical options for stress incontinence. Non-medical interventions like lifestyle adjustments, fluid management, and dietary changes also play a key role.

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If medication is not sufficient, interventional procedures can also be used. One of them is botulinum toxin injections into the bladder muscle, which effectively reduce overactive bladder symptoms.

From a Lithuanian viewpoint, this information from Delfi highlights a shift towards proactive and comprehensive healthcare. While international coverage might focus on the technological marvels of new treatments, the local emphasis is on accessibility and empowering patients to seek help without shame. Verikaitė's advice encourages a departure from the traditional stoicism, urging individuals to seek professional help to improve their quality of life, a message that aligns with broader public health initiatives in Lithuania.

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Lifestyle correction, proper fluid intake, limiting caffeine, or quitting smoking are also important non-drug measures.