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Urinary incontinence: current overview of a prevalent problem.
1McMaster University.
Geriatrics
|September 1, 1989
Summary
Urinary incontinence in elders is common but often reversible. Initial assessment with history, physical exam, and residual urine tests can guide treatment for stress, overflow, or urge incontinence.
Area of Science:
- Geriatrics
- Urology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Urinary incontinence significantly impacts elders in various settings.
- A substantial portion of urinary incontinence cases are treatable.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the initial diagnostic and treatment approach for urinary incontinence in the elderly.
- To differentiate between common types of urinary incontinence.
Main Methods:
- Clinical assessment including detailed history and physical examination.
- Residual urine testing to evaluate bladder emptying.
- Classification of incontinence into stress, overflow, and urge types.
Main Results:
- Initial evaluation can identify reversible causes of incontinence.
- Three primary types of urinary incontinence exist: stress, overflow, and urge.
- These types can occur concurrently.
Conclusions:
- A thorough initial evaluation is key to managing elderly incontinence.
- Pelvic floor muscle exercises or surgery can address stress incontinence.
- Referral for urodynamic investigation is advised if initial treatments fail.