Incontinence is considered a private issue and as such, many people prefer suffering in silence as opposed to seeking medical attention. There is also a misconception that this problem only affects the elderly. However, more studies reveal that younger adults are also at risk. Families must grapple with the high cost of treating and managing adult incontinence and the lack of easily accessible information means they do not know about more affordable solutions. With over 25 million adult Americans now suffering from this condition, cheap adult diapers can help greatly. If you are taking care of someone with bladder and bowel control problems, it is time to learn about more affordable incontinence solutions. These cheap incontinence products not only give a reprieve to the patient but also save your family a lot of money,
Background on Adult Incontinence
They say you can only manage what you know. As such, it is imperative to get more insight about adult incontinence in order to find the best solution to this medical problem. Adult incontinence entails a loss of bladder and bowel control that leads to the involuntary release of urine and fecal matter. This very embarrassing and threfore forces many patients to withdraw from active lifestyles. A survey by the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS), an arm of CDC says that some form of incontinence plagues over 50% of adults over the age of 50. A similar study shows that one in four women over the age of 18 years have experienced an episode of involuntary urine leakage. With many people shying away from these surveys on incontinence, it is suspected that the numbers of those affected could be even higher.
The main causes of adult incontinence include:
Hormonal changes during pregnancy
Increased weight during pregnancy
Damaged bladder muscles during vaginal delivery
Decreased bladder capacity due to old age
Menopause
Reproductive system surgical procedures such as Hysterectomy.
Enlarged prostate in men
Prostate cancer and side effects resulting from treatment of the same
Neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, Multiple sclerosis, and others
Looking at these causes, it is obvious that women are more at risk. In fact, the National Association for Incontinence (NAI) says that of the 25 million adult Americans showing symptoms of incontinence, 75% are men. Other risk factors include old age, smoking and being overweight.
Why Worry About Adult Incontinence?
While the numbers clearly indicate that this is a big problem in modern society, the real impact of adult incontinence is fully felt by the affected individual and their family. Mental health issues emanating from loss of bowel and bladder control have afflicted many people. The stress that comes with managing this condition and keeping it under wraps is just too demanding.
Other problems associated with adult incontinence include reduced physical activity that leads to health complications such as obesity. There is also a big impact on an individual’s personal life, with many relationships either breaking up or experiencing turbulence.
Many people suffering with bladder control issues become less productive at work or in their businesses and they risk losing the source of their livelihood. The impact on the family is also huge. Those tasked with caring for elderly relatives suffering from any form of incontinence have an unenviable task. Many families have also experienced strained relations, a problem precipitated by the provision of care for elders.
How Incontinence Products Can Help
With all these problems associated with adult incontinence, the need for a timely solution becomes obvious. Luckily, there are many incontinence products on the market that are designed to manage both bowel and bladder control problems. Some of the incontinence products available include:
Adult diapers: They include men and women diapers, overnight diapers, disposable and washable diapers, among others.
Pull up incontinence products: They are supposed to be worn just like traditional underwear but feature a highly absorbent material to keep the wearer dry at all times.
Briefs: They are still worn like traditional underwear but feature fasteners. They offer more protection especially for those experiencing heavy flow. They are ideal for non-ambulatory individuals who require the assistance of a caregiver.
Incontinence pads: Mostly used by women. While they come in different designs, they are mostly used with a panty.
Male protective guards: Specifically designed for men and are shaped for male anatomy. They are comfy, discreet and secure.