Mixed incontinence is a combination of two types of bladder control problems
Mixed incontinence is exactly what it sounds like. This condition is a combination of two types of bladder control issues: stress and urge incontinence. Patients who have this problem experience symptoms of stress incontinence, such as leaking urine, combined with symptoms of urge incontinence, such as feeling the urgent need to urinate frequently. The good news is that help is available. Our Austin urology doctors have the experience and expertise to diagnose and treat every type of incontinence.
What causes mixed incontinence?
Both men and women get stress incontinence. Men usually develop the problem after they have prostate procedures. Women frequently have stress incontinence after childbirth. The following also cause incontinence.
- Pelvic surgeries or injuries that weaken the pelvic muscles
- Certain medications
- Being overweight or obese
Urge incontinence occurs in both men and women, but it happens twice as often in women. Several things can cause this type of bladder control problem.
- Aging
- Diabetes
- Neurological problems
- Menopause
- Pelvic surgeries
- Medications that increase urination
- Smoking
- Obesity
Symptoms include those of both stress and urge incontinence
Patients who experience mixed incontinence symptoms should talk to our Austin urology doctors about their bladder control problems.
- Leaking urine when laughing, coughing, sneezing, lifting heavy objects, changing position, exercising or during sex
- Feeling that sudden, urgent “gotta go” feeling
- Feeling the need to urinate even though the bladder is not full
- Nocturia, or getting up more than twice a night to use the bathroom
- Wetting the bed accidentally
Our team members are thoughtful and kind. Talking to them about “bathroom” issues can lead to a better quality of life.
Expert diagnosis and treatment start with our Austin urology doctors
We urge patients to see our expert urology team for solutions to their bladder control issues, including stress and urge incontinence. When you come to us with symptoms of mixed incontinence, our physicians perform a physical examination and ask questions about your medical and family history. They may order a variety of different diagnostic tests, including imaging, urodynamics studies or a cystoscopy procedure.
After our Austin urology doctors make a diagnosis, they devise a treatment plan that may include everything from lifestyle modifications to medication or pelvic floor physical therapy. Bladder training and devices such as pessaries are other non-invasive options. Urologic surgery is available for patients who need it to reduce troublesome stress and urge incontinence symptoms.
Mixed incontinence can be challenging for men and women, but the expert team at NAU Urology Specialists is here to help. Contact us for an appointment.