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You don’t have to put up with it! Did you know that incontinence is a symptom not a disease? This means that there is always a reason for it to be happening. It doesn’t just happen on its own and there are many reasons why. In the UK it is estimated that between 4 and 6 million people are affected by incontinence, although the figure is likely to be higher as many people feel too embarrassed to talk about it. It is more prevalent in women, often following childbirth although men can also experience continence problems which can be due to prostate enlargement. It is often assumed that continence problems are just a normal part of ageing and can’t be treated. Whilst it does become more prevalent in the elderly, perhaps due to medical conditions, reduced mobility and dexterity, or memory problems, there are other reasons such as a weak pelvic floor, menopause, prostate enlargement or constipation which can affect a person’s continence. In addition lifestyle should be considered, paying attention to diet and fluid intake. Symptoms vary depending on the cause, but you may experience an increased need to go to the loo or need to pass urine more urgently. Alternatively, you may leak a little when you cough and sneeze or find that you can’t reach the toilet in time. By talking to a Healthcare Professional, you can get an accurate diagnosis and begin appropriate treatment. It should be remembered that constipation and faecal incontinence can also be a problem for many people and this often occurs at the same time as bladder problems. It is estimated that 1.4% of the general population experience faecal incontinence, with constipation affecting 3-15% of people. Many people manage treatment themselves with over the counter medicine so actual figures are likely to be higher. A normal pattern is to open your bowels between 3 times a day to 3 times a week. If you are experiencing any problems with your bladder or bowels there are Health Professionals available to help. A good place to start is with a Specialist Continence Nurse or Physiotherapist who will assess your symptoms and make a diagnosis. Following this they can initiate conservative treatment such as pelvic floor exercises, bladder or bowel re-training, and lifestyle advice. You don’t have to put up with it. Sue Hill Continence Nurse Specialist RN, Bsc C OMPUTER P ROBLEMS ? Wi-Fi playing up? Forgotten Windows password? Blank Screen? PC’s, Laptops, Tablets, SmartPhones Friendly local service No Fix no Fee Call Steve on: 07403 226976 Email: [email protected] Web: www.BourneEndComputerHelp.co.uk 18 | hiyabucks.com Dance tuition for adults Beginner classes every Tuesday evening in Downley Visit our website or call to book 0787 353 8709 www.comedancingwithme.co.uk