Incontinence generally refers to the involuntary loss of urinary or bowel control. The inability to control bladder function (urinary incontinence) or rectal function (fecal incontinence) can affect the quality of life of people of all ages. Incontinence can be difficult to confront and discuss. The good news is you are not alone. This common condition can usually be treated successfully, improving your quality of life.
Urinary Incontinence
Urinary incontinence – the involuntary loss of urine – is a common and often embarrassing problem that affects millions of Americans. Women are affected twice as often as men, with approximately one of every four women experiencing some degree of incontinence in their lifetime.
Causes of urinary incontinence include:
We Can Help with Incontinence
The skilled physicians at Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center specialize in diagnosing and treating all forms of incontinence. We offer many treatment options, beginning with the least invasive and including the most advanced. These include:
- Behavioral techniques, such as bladder training and fluid and diet management
- Pelvic exercises to strengthen pelvic floor muscles
- Medication
- Interventional treatments, such as bulking agents, botulinum toxin (Botox) injections into the bladder muscles and neuromodulation therapy
- Surgery
Botox has recently been approved by the FDA for use in people with multiple sclerosis and spinal cord injury whose conditions result in bladder overactivity. By paralyzing the muscular lining of the bladder, the drug decreases the urgency and frequency of urination.
Our Physicians
Physicians with special training in treating incontinence at Illinois Masonic Medical Center include:
- Urologists, who specialize in conditions of the male and female urinary tract and the male reproductive organs
- Urogynecologists, who specialize in conditions of the reproductive system and lower urinary tract in women
- Colorectal surgeons, who specialize in conditions of the colon, rectum and anus and treat both men and women
- Gastroenterologists, who specialize in conditions related to the gastrointestinal tract and treat both men and women
Contact Us
If incontinence is interfering with your life, let us help you find a physician and a solution that is right for you. Call us today for a consultation: 1.800.3.ADVOCATE (1.800.323.8622). You can also find a physician and request an appointment online.
Physicians: To refer a patient, call 773.296.7159.
|
