Incontinence is when urine accidently leaks. This problem is frustrating and can be very embarrassing for men. Adult women are more likely to have incontinence than adult men. Pregnancy and child birth are part of the reason. Yet, many men do suffer from incontinence. Furthermore, men are less likely to visit the doctor for help than women.

Men who suffer from this problem will be happy to know that it is usually very treatable. In addition, there are many types of incontinence supplies that can help avoid the embarrassment that can occur with an over-active bladder. Most adult men that have the problem typically have either stress, urge, or overflow incontinence.

Stress incontinence is caused by coughing, sneezing, and lifting which results in the abdomen placing pressure on bladder resulting in urine leakage. Urge incontinence is the sudden overwhelming urge to suddenly urinate. Overflow incontinence is the persistent dripping of urine and is typically caused by frequent urinating, and urinating in small amounts.

There are several reasons men develop an over-active bladder. Diabetes can cause nerve damage which can lead to the problem. Other diseases such as Parkinson’s and Stroke are known causes of incontinence in men. Over-active bladder occurs when the muscles of the bladder tighten at the wrong time. Spinal cord injuries can also cause incontinence because the signals from the brain to the bladder are disturbed.

The prostate gland typically becomes larger as men age. This can put pressure on the bladder and may cause weak urine stream, increased urinating, dripping, or leaking. In addition this can lead to more frequent urination at night. If the prostate gland is removed for cancer it can cause urgent incontinence. Radiation used to treat prostate cancer can also cause bladder problems.

Men with over-active bladder will most likely require a physical exam. The doctor will no doubt check the prostate gland. This is generally the first step in the diagnosis process.  Expect questions regarding what medicines you take along with alcohol and caffeine intake. You may be required to make notes of liquid intake and trips to the bathroom in a diary. This is done to see if certain patterns exist and is used as a diagnosis tool.

In the end, more adult women than adult men have an over-active bladder. However, men do have incontinence. Men are less likely to see a doctor for treatment than women. Yet, incontinence is usually treatable and men should not be embarrassed to see a doctor. Everything you discuss with your doctor is confidential.