What Is Reflex Incontinence?
What is Reflex Incontinence?
Reflex incontinence is a type of urinary incontinence where you lose bladder control without having a conscious feeling of urgency. It is caused by a disruption in the nerve signals between your bladder and brain. It is not caused by a lack of bladder control or weak muscles in your bladder. The most common cause of reflex incontinence is nerve damage due to injury or disease.
What are the Symptoms of Reflex Incontinence?
The most common symptom of reflex incontinence is the urge to urinate without warning. You may also experience a sudden, involuntary loss of urine without any warning. Other symptoms can include frequent urination, incontinence episodes, and leakage of urine during activities such as coughing, sneezing, lifting, or laughing.
What Causes Reflex Incontinence?
Reflex incontinence is caused by damage to the nerves that control the bladder. This damage can result from injury, surgery, neurological diseases, or a medical condition such as diabetes or multiple sclerosis. In some cases, the cause may be unknown.
How is Reflex Incontinence Diagnosed?
The first step in diagnosing reflex incontinence is to determine if you have an underlying medical condition. Your doctor will also perform a physical exam and ask questions about your symptoms. Depending on the results of your physical exam and medical history, your doctor may order tests such as a urinalysis, urodynamic testing, or imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis.
How is Reflex Incontinence Treated?
The treatment for reflex incontinence depends on the underlying cause. In some cases, lifestyle changes such as avoiding certain foods, limiting caffeine, and increasing fluid intake may be effective. Other treatments may include medications, bladder training, and, in some cases, surgery. If the cause of your reflex incontinence is unknown, your doctor may recommend physical therapy or electrical stimulation to help strengthen the muscles of the bladder.
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