Incontinence Specialist

What is Incontinence?

Incontinence is the inability to fully control the bladder or the bowels. There are two broad categories of incontinence, urinary incontinence, and fecal incontinence. Both of these are divided into sub-types, as well. Dr. Mazarei specializes in the treatment of urinary incontinence.

What is Stress Urinary Incontinence?

Stress urinary incontinence occurs when a person has an unexpected leak when they are making some type of stressful movement. Many different movements can put the bladder under stress, but some of the most common instances of stress urinary incontinence include lifting heavy loads, laughing very hard, or coughing hard. This is by far the most commonly seen kind of urinary incontinence today.

What is an Overactive Bladder?

This is another form of urinary incontinence. An overactive bladder causes a person to have frequent sudden urination urges. In some cases, the urge happens so suddenly that it results in leakage.

What is Overflow Urinary Incontinence?

Overflow urinary incontinence occurs when a person is unable to totally empty their bladder. The residual urine in the bladder then leaks out unexpectedly.

Who is at Risk For Urinary Incontinence?

Women have the highest risk for urinary incontinence. Age is another risk factor, as urinary incontinence occurs more often in women age 35 and up. Certain behaviors can increase the chances of urinary incontinence, including excess alcohol intake and excessive caffeine intake. People who are overweight, especially if they are also diabetic, have a higher risk for urinary incontinence. Smokers who develop the chronic "smoker's cough" are more likely to have stress urinary incontinence due to the pressure the cough puts on the bladder.

What is the Treatment For Urinary Incontinence?

There are several possible approaches to the treatment of urinary incontinence. Patients who are overweight can lose weight to resolve the problem in some cases. Smokers can stop smoking, and alcohol intake can be reduced to alleviate the problem in many cases. There are prescription medications that can help patients greatly reduce or even totally eliminate urinary incontinence, as well. Dr. Mazarei will prescribe the best method of treatment based on a patient’s symptoms and health history.