Prostate problems and incontinence in men
Men are less at risk of incontinence and bladder problems than women, but as they grow older they can develop prostate problems.
The prostate gland is a donut shaped organ that is wrapped around the urethra at the base of the bladder. The main function of the prostate gland is to produce a lubricant which helps sperm to travel from the testes to the urethra during intercourse. Benign enlargement of the prostate gland is very common in older men. As the prostate gland enlarges, it puts pressure on to the urethra and causes 'irritative' male incontinence symptoms – urgency, frequency, hesitancy and straining.
Typically, men with prostate problems have to get up at night to use the toilet but then have difficulty starting the flow of urine, have a poor flow and sometimes dribble after they have finished. More rarely, cancer of the prostate gland can develop; therefore it is very important that men with new urinary symptoms see their doctor as prostate disease can often be successfully treated with medication or surgery.
Spinal injury and incontinence
Another group of men who are susceptible to incontinence issues are young, highly active males who experience spinal cord injury – often following sporting injury or car accidents. If you fall into this group, continence care can have the added challenge of limited dexterity or mobility if you find yourself requiring a wheelchair. There are many support groups now for people with spinal cord injuries, with members living full and active lives with well-managed continence.
Support, options and products
If you're a male suffering from incontinence issues, do seek medical advice but try not to worry. You're certainly not alone and there are a number of options available to you. Your first step is to speak to your GP who can arrange a proper assessment.
If you have already been diagnosed with incontinence and recommended a product or treatment path, the SecuriCare team can offer ongoing support, product advice and home delivery for your supplies. Just give them a call (on 0808 256 5400 for new customers, or 0800 318 965 if you already use SecuriCare), or join the service.
