I am 57 and my name is John. I had a stroke 6 weeks ago and have been suffering with light urine incontinence. Is this normal when you have a stroke? ive not asked my nurse because its a bit embarrassing. Would just like to know if its common to have this before i ask because if it is i wont feel as embarrassed? can someone help?
Hi John,
I’m sorry you have experienced this. It is common to experience incontinence after a stroke. There are various reasons why a stroke can cause incontinence. This can be due to:
-Damage to the area of the brain that controls the brain/bladder
-Being constipated. This is often caused by being immobile/less mobile
-Communication difficulties
-Side effects of medication
Although you may be embarrassed, it is important to talk to a Doctor for some advice. They can recommend you some treatment methods or surgery options suitable for your situation. Only 15 percent of stroke survivors continue to have continence problems a year after their stroke, and there is a lot that can be done. You could be missing out on life-changing treatment by not talking to a Doctor.
Physiotherapists can help with your walking and help you to get on and off the toilet. Occupational therapists can recommend a diet plan to help you manage incontinence. Are you having problems with speech after your stroke? Speech pathologists can help you with ways to communicate if you need to visit a toilet.
I’m happy to recommend some lifestyle tips for you to help you to manage your light incontinence. Would you like any advice and recommendations for products?
Hi John,
That is no problem, seeing a nurse can speed up the process of managing incontinence.
With light incontinence, you can start off with pads and see if these are effective. There are shaped pads available that are designed specially to fit the female or male anatomy. An example of the male pads are the iD For Men pads. These are available from levels 1 to 4. Tena for Men Level 1 is designed for light incontinence, however, you may want to try Tena for Men Level 2 for additional reassurance. Do you think you’d be comfortable trying these?
If you find your pad moves around a lot during use or is uncomfortable, you can try wearing pull up pants. These are perfect if you are fully mobile, whereas pads are a good option if you do not move around a lot. Pull up pants are also slightly harder to put on and take off. These products are designed just like normal underwear, so are perfect if you would prefer this style to an incontinence pad.
Would you like any more guidance on choosing a product? Let me know if you need any lifestyle tips for managing incontinence.
I think ill have a try with the level 2. They sound good for what i need. i am quite active but i would prefer to try those first and then a pull up if needs be.
I will have a look on google now to find some.
What lifestyle tips can you give please? that could be interesting. My appointment is booked in for next week so now i feel a lot better about speaking to the nurse about it. thank u again
