Incontinence After Prostate Surgery
Even with the available treatments for prostate cancer, it is still a known fact that most men will suffer from side effects at some period in their lives. Such is also the case with surgery. The removal of the prostate is a highly effective move to address a cancer that has not yet spread, yet this often leaves the patient with incontinence after prostate surgery.
Incontinence is defined as the loss of voluntary control over one’s bladder. And more than having a physical effect on the body, it is also a cause for embarrassment and emotional distress for the patient. Although many advances have already been made today in terms of surgical techniques, the chances of incontinence after prostate surgery, as well as impotence, occurring as side effects have been reduced, but are still very much present.
Incontinence after prostate surgery can be due to a variety of reasons. One could be urine leaking out from the muscular valve controlling urine in the bladder, also called the bladder sphincter, especially during sudden movements such as during a sudden burst of laughter, sneezing, and coughing. This could also come hand-in-hand, or separately, with feeling a sudden urge to pee at all times.
While there are a variety of ways to address this problem, medications and surgeries have their own side effects that the patient will once again face pretty difficult choices. It is good then that there are alternatives.
Back to basics
First and foremost, before jumping into any complex solutions, it would be better to take note of the simplest and most available option in dealing with incontinence after prostate surgery, and this would be absorbent products. Sure, there might be initial unease and embarrassment, but surely a measure of comfort can be derived from an immediate, if temporary solution. Well, at least until a better one can be tried out.
The adult diaper industry is a growing one. To date, there are products that provide the best comfort without having to make the experience an uncomfortable one. Another great thing is that these products are not targeted for the female market alone anymore. As studies in incontinence after prostate surgery continues and progresses, the more that market researchers see the value in improving absorbent products for adults, so that males, too, can now choose from a variety of briefs and underpants.
Devices and exercises
Other products out in the market to assist in incontinence after prostate surgery are catheters, artificial sphincters, and external collection devices – one that looks like a condom and is worn over the penis to collect any possible leaks. While these are great devices, much attention has been given, however, to Kegel exercises. Originally designed for women and childbirth, these exercises are now being used by men who experience incontinence after prostate surgery.
A growing percentage of these men have shown improvement in their bladder control, usually after continuous practice for a period of three months or more. To further strengthen control, a Kegel exercise device can also be purchased so that more tension can be placed on the muscle while doing the exercises.
Given time, patience, and a constant trial of available treatments and solutions, incontinence after prostate surgery really could be one of the phases a patient will go through for a certain period. While there is no set formula yet for getting past incontinence, progress has been made and could only improve in the future.
Prostate Tip #1
As men age, they should think about prostate problem prevention since men in their fifties have a higher risk of developing an enlarged prostate or even cancer. It takes less money to prevent a disease from happening rather than treating it.
Prostate Tip #2
It will be in your best interests to get a prostate screening annually from your physician once you reach age 45 to determine if you have any problems with your prostate. This will also help your physician detect any cancer while it is still in its early stages.