Many people assume that they will never experience incontinence. In fact, this type of health issue can strike just about anyone. Among the many conditions that can lead to incontinence as one of the symptoms, these four stand out.

Types 1 and 2 Diabetes

There is no doubt that diabetes in any form increases the potential for urinary incontinence. This is especially true when blood glucose levels are not properly controlled with a combination of diet, exercise, and medication. Part of the increased risk has to do with an overactive bladder. Depending on what the diabetic drinks, the desire to urinate may come out of nowhere, leaving little time to find a restroom. The increased level of glucose in the bloodstream can also cause problems with a number or organs, including the urinary tract.

When incontinence leads to unfortunate and embarrassing situations, it’s time to talk with the doctor and seek treatment. In the meantime, checking out the products at a medical superstore like incontinence undergarments is a good idea.

Obesity

People who are classed as obese run a greater risk of developing a number of health issues. That includes experiencing ongoing incontinence. For people who fall into this category, making some lifestyle changes will make a difference. That includes getting more exercise, changing the diet to include healthier choices, and gradually shedding those excess pounds. Doing so may be enough to reverse the incontinence or at least make the episodes less frequent. While seeking to lose the weight, continence products will make it easier to control the problem without having an accident in public.

Smoking

It may seem odd at first glance for smoking to have anything to to with urinary incontinence. In fact, the wide range of carcinogens and other chemicals found in tobacco products can pave the way for all sorts of health woes. Depending on what is happening to the patient, ostomy products will be the best way to control the situation while go through the nicotine withdrawals associated with quitting smoking.

Aging

Most people associated urinary and other forms of incontinence with aging. It’s certainly true that more fragile health in later years adds to the potential for this problem to develop. Special undergarments will make it easier to deal with the issue and still feel comfortable being out in public places. Many of these garments today are so compact that no one will notice a difference. They are also small enough to tuck away an extra pair in a purse, computer bag, or the glove compartment in the car.

If you have begun to experience episodes of losing control of your bladder, the first thing to do is contact your primary care physician and undergo a complete physical examination. There may be a treatable issue that is causing those episodes and the right approach will make them go away. If you do have a chronic condition that must be managed, talking with the physician about the right type of products will allow you to get on with your life without having to become a recluse who never wanders far from a bathroom.