Incontinence is when you experience accidental or involuntary excretion of urine. This health complication can occur in people of all ages, but it is more prevalent among older adults and women with chronic health complications. Incontinence can be a huge challenge for career people. However, there are multiple solutions to the problem, among them being the use of incontinence products.
Alternatively, you can seek help from a medical professional for assessment, management, and counsel. Below are some of the things that you should know before using incontinence products.
1. Get the Right Supplies
Incontinence needs vary from one individual to another. Therefore, there is no one-size-fits-all product when it comes to incontinence supplies. As such, you want to be armed with the appropriate supplies to address your unique needs better.
Incontinence Pads
If you are experiencing infrequent or light leaks, incontinence male guards or pads are the ideal option. Guards and pads fit well inside any regular under pant to collect small urinal leaks throughout the day.
The other upside to pads and guards is that they are discreet, and no one will notice that you are wearing one.
Protective Underwear
If your leaks are moderate and more frequent, protective underwear is the best option for your needs. When wearing regular underpants, the leaks will be more visible, and this might cause some distress and discomfort.
Protective pull-on underwear, on the other hand, helps with covering the mess. Additionally, they are more comfortable. With multiple brands at your disposal, you are torn for choices. The products will vary from brand to brand due to the unique design features.
2. Always Carry Back-up Clothing
Even with the most appropriate incontinence products for your needs, you might need to change the supplies at intervals. However, if you are using your incontinence products effectively, you will not have to change your clothes due to accidental leaks.
However, a change of clothes will bring you peace of mind knowing that you can fix any unexpected mess by changing into a clean pair of pants. When carrying a spare set of clothing to your workplace, be sure to pack one that matches your outfit to avoid coworkers noticing. You can store your backup clothing in your bag, briefcase, car, locker, or desk. You can change into a clean pair of pants in case of a visible leak, and no one will notice the difference.
3. Stay Hydrated
This might sound counterintuitive because some people will feel that the idea should cut down fluid intake to avoid urinary incontinence. However, failure to dehydrate in an attempt to stave off urine leaks may end up hurting the health of your kidneys.
For optimum mental and physical health, you will need to stay hydrated. In addition, your urine smells stronger when you are dehydrated. That is to mean that failure to dehydrate will make your leaks more apparent to colleagues.
You should drink six to eight oz. glasses of water in a daily according to the National Association for Continence. The amount might vary from individual to individual, which is why it’s recommended that you seek the advice of a professional doctor.
4. Bathroom Breaks are Important
You can prevent potential leaks by taking frequent trips to the bathroom. When taking adequate water to stay hydrated, the need to empty your bladder will be higher, necessitating frequent bathroom trips. One way of going around it is by setting the alarm on your phone. Alternatively, you can create a schedule outlining how often you will be leaving your workstation to empty your bladder or bowel.
It could also help to disclose your medical condition to trusted human resource personnel or a trusted colleague. For example, if your incontinence condition necessitates frequent breaks, you may want them to know in advance. This way, they will be more understanding and supportive.
5. Seek Medical Treatment
Incontinence is a manageable and treatable condition. In some cases, it is caused by other underlying conditions such as trauma. By treating the root cause of the problem, one can effectively recover from incontinence.
It is a great idea to consult a medical professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. If your doctor has recommended specific medications, be sure to take them as prescribed to avoid surprise leaks. If a physical exercise such as Kegel exercises were recommended, it would help if you were to practice them throughout the day.
Kegel exercises help with strengthening the pelvic floor. The good thing about these exercises is that they are not visible – you will not have to move your entire body. In addition, no one will know when you are taking your daily exercises to manage your incontinence.
Conclusion
Having to worry about a leak can be very uncomfortable, especially at work. Your mind needs to be fully focused on the tasks at hand for optimum productivity. With proper preparation and observance of the tips discussed above, you will be better placed to regain your confidence.
