Dr. David Shusterman, a board certified specialist in urology at NY Urology with locations in both Forest Hills and Midtown East, New York City, New York is uniquely qualified to handle very sensitive life issues like urinary incontinence. It’s a subject that is embarrassing for patients to talk about with anyone. Dr. Shusterman offers a safe and confidential environment for patients with bladder control problems. For discretionary and compassionate care, make an appointment with Dr. Shusterman’s office, either online or by phone.
Put simply, urinary incontinence is a loss of bladder control. It's a problem that affects many people, especially women, as they get older. Something as innocent as a sneeze is enough to cause urine to leak out. It can get to the point where the patient's bladder takes over their life.
Certainly, it’s a symptom of a bigger medical problem, usually one that’s easy to fix with a little help from a doctor like Dr. Shusterman. Often, the hardest part is finding a way to talk about it. Once Dr. Shusterman makes a diagnosis of the underlying cause, he can develop a care plan that helps control it.
There’s no simple answer to that question. It may be anything from that morning cup of coffee to a neurological disorder such as Parkinson's disease. For someone experiencing the occasional bout of incontinence, it could be diet. Certain foods and drinks work as diuretics that stimulate the bladder and increase urine production at the same time. Dr.
Shusterman might recommend you stay away from:
Certain medications can have this same effect. Sometimes, incontinence is a symptom of an illness such as a bladder infection or enlarged prostate, too. It tends to be prevalent in women who have given birth.
Treatment starts by figuring out why incontinence happens and eliminating some of the more serious possibilities like multiple sclerosis (MS) as a factor. A comprehensive care plan includes some lifestyle changes and exercises, too. Something as simple as limiting fluid intake can have a dramatic effect.
Dr. Shusterman probably will suggest pelvic floor muscles exercises, as well. They help to tighten the muscles that control the bladder. Combined with dietary changes and bladder training, these exercises offer the best hope for those with mild incontinence.
Bladder training teaches the bladder to hold urine better. It involves delaying urination for about 10 minutes when the urge happens. Over time, the waiting period expands until it reaches two to four hours. Proper bladder training strengthens the organ and reduces sensitivity.