GUWAHATI, June 19 - In order to create awareness about the embarrassing condition of leakage of urine while laughing, coughing, sneezing and other things that put pressure on the bladder, World Continence Week is observed every year. This year the week is being observed from June 17 to 23. The week is being observed in Guwahati city too.
Once considered a medical condition of the elderly population, over active bladder (OAB) is now catching the younger generation in both women and men. It is a relatively common condition with varying severity and is estimated to affect approximately one in six adults and its incidence increases with age. City-based urologists say they are witnessing a surge in female patients in their early 40�s to be suffering from this embarrassing condition.
According to urologist Dr Sasanka Barua at the GMCH, �This condition is more common among women than men since the woman�s bladder muscles are affected in pregnancy and childbirth. Besides women have a short urethra.�
Accidental leaking of urine is not a joke but a seriously annoying problem. �Keep an eye on how often and how much urine you are passing every day, besides how strong you felt the urge to empty each time. If the frequency and the urgency have increased, it�s time to consult your doctor,� say experts.
Dr Barua says, �In some cases, the urge to urinate may be so strong that it can result in leaks before the patient can reach the bathroom. Most people who suffer from urinary incontinence live with it because they believe there is nothing they can do about it.�
Experts say that awareness about OAB is critical when it comes to reducing the stigma associated with bladder health. People should not suffer silently. It is a treatable condition. At present there are numerous ways to treat it which include lifestyle changes, diet, medication and surgery if required. Behavioural interventions such as kegel exercises often help manage an overactive bladder and control urine leakage.
If one develops any of the symptoms of OAB, experts advise a limit to caffeinated beverages (coffee, tea), avoidance of spicy foods and refraining from alcohol as it could worsen one�s condition.
