As we all age, many of us will have issues with incontinence or loss of bladder or bowel control. Contrary to what many believe, incontinence is a symptom — not a disease in itself. A broad range of conditions and disorders can cause incontinence, including birth defects, pelvic surgery, injuries to the pelvic region or to the spinal cord, neurological diseases, multiple sclerosis, poliomyelitis, medications, infection, and degenerative changes associated with aging. It can also occur as a result of pregnancy or childbirth.
Incontinence is a problem of the urinary system, which is composed of two kidneys, two ureters, a bladder, and a urethra. The kidneys remove waste products from the blood and continuously produce urine. The muscular, tube-like ureters move urine from the kidneys to the bladder, where it is stored until it flows out of the body through the tube-like urethra. A circular muscle, called the sphincter, controls the activity of the urethra.
Normally, the bladder stores the urine that is continually produced by the kidneys until it is convenient to urinate. Of the millions with urinary incontinence, 85% are estimated to be women. One in four women between the ages of 30 and 59 has experienced an episode of urinary incontinence. Incontinence can occur in children and young adults, but the largest number affected is the elderly. Fifty percent or more of elderly persons living at home or in long-term care facilities are incontinent. Incontinence is not a normal part of the aging process. Eight out of ten cases of incontinence can be improved. Almost half of people who suffer urinary incontinence are also fecally incontinent (encopresis).
Incontinence can cause embarrassment, stress, fear, and anxiety. Most people are so embarrassed they don’t mention their incontinence problems to their doctor or even their family. Incontinence can also place a financial strain on individuals and families due to the need for absorbent products, urinary collection devices, medications, and additional treatments. Incontinence frequently disrupts sleeping patterns that may cause stress, appetite changes, and sleepiness. Sufferers may experience emotional as well as physical discomfort. Many people affected by loss of bladder or bowel control isolate themselves for fear of ridicule and lose self-esteem.
Because incontinence is a symptom and not a disease, the method of treatment depends on diagnostic results. Treatment can involve a combination of medications, behavioral modification, pelvic muscle rehabilitation, collection devices, and absorbent products. Despite the high success rates in treating incontinence, many people do not seek medical attention. Many types of treatment are available for incontinent people. Support devices, urethral inserts (plugs), and penile compression devices.
A variety of disposable products are available to keep the incontinent person dry and free of odor. In order to select the appropriate product from our incontinence supplies in Westlake Village, CA, it is important to assess each individual. The person should be assessed based on their individual function.
Conveniently located in Westlake Village, CA, please stop by Apollo HomeCare Supply and we will assist you with your incontinence product needs in a private and respectful manner. We specialize and have a huge supply of Bathroom safety products, Blood glucose monitors, Canes and crutches, CPAP devices, Incontinence, infection prevention (Gloves, masks, gowns, etc.), homecare beds, Lift chairs, Mobility power scooters, Nebulizer equipment, orthotics (Splints, Bracing & Supports), oxygen concentrators, Walkers, knee walkers and rollators, essential oils, yoga supplies, wheelchairs and power wheel chairs and Wound care products.