Nocturnal incontinence is a relatively common problem that affects men and women. It is more common for women over 50 to experience urinary incontinence and suffer from nighttime leakage or bedwetting.
Even though it is a concern, many people shy away from discussing the issue with their healthcare provider. It feels embarrassing and shameful to admit, and most people think that as they age, it’s just something that happens.
Some people may only notice bladder leakage at night. In this article, you’ll discover some helpful understanding and tips for managing nocturnal incontinence.
What Causes Nocturnal Incontinence?
There can be multiple causes for nocturnal incontinence. Having an understanding of where your leakage is coming from can help you find the best ways to combat it. Here are some of the more common reasons for experiencing nighttime leakage.
Weak Pelvic Floor
Your pelvic floor muscles are necessary for helping keep your bladder in check. This array of muscles that goes from the pubic bone to the tailbone and side to side supports your bladder, uterus, and bowels.
If your muscles become weak due to age or pregnancy, they can cause incontinence. They don’t prevent you from needing to rush to the bathroom in the middle of the night.
Caffeine and Alcohol
Too much caffeine or alcohol can trigger urine production. These types of drinks are considered bladder irritants. Alcohol, in particular, suppresses antidiuretic hormone secretion (ADH), a substance produced naturally in the brain, which signals you when it’s time to urinate. It can result in the unexpected leakage that comes with nocturnal incontinence, mainly if it is close to bedtime.
ADH Imbalance
Going along more in-depth with the ADH hormone, if your body isn’t producing enough of it, you end up with a fuller bladder at nighttime. The hormone helps communicate during nighttime to produce less urine so you don’t have to go.
Heavy sleepers experience this more often if deficient in this hormone. Even if you suffer from insomnia, you may still not realize you need to get up and go to the bathroom.
How To Manage Nocturnal Incontinence
Now that you’re more aware of some of the causes of incontinence, the question you may have now is, “How do I treat it?” While in some cases, it may require a visit to your doctor or healthcare professional, there are some things that you can do at home to help manage the problem.
Adult Pads or Diapers
It isn’t ideal treating diaper rash in adults, but it can be helpful if you’re a heavy sleeper to rely on nighttime leakage help. There are numerous adult pads and diapers on the market that you can purchase over the counter. Wearing them at night can ensure that if you have leakage, you’re confining it.
Look for high-quality leakage protection to ensure you’re not getting the bed wet. And remember that pads and diapers are only a temporary solution to the problem. Even if you invest in adult pads and diapers, you should discuss the issue with your doctor or healthcare provider.
More Exercise
If you suffer from weak pelvic muscles, doing exercises at home to strengthen the muscles can help. Consider doing some research on how to build up the muscles through different exercises, such as yoga, pilates, or other methods, and take time each day to work on them.
With consistent exercise, you may find that soon you’ll be making it through the night without leakage.
Cut Back on Acidic Drinks and Alcohol
Reduce your intake of caffeine, acidic juices, and alcohol. These can make a big difference by allowing your body to regulate the ADH hormone more effectively and reduce or even eliminate nighttime incontinence. If you still want to drink these beverages, set yourself up with a “cut-off” time each day to avoid doing it too close to bedtime.
Talking To Your Doctor
While it may be uncomfortable and embarrassing, you must have a discussion with your doctor or healthcare professional about nocturnal incontinence. It may be helpful to be referred to a urologist to determine the cause of the problem.
You may need more tests and examinations for a diagnosis. Treatment may also require specific medications. In the case of ADH production, there are pills, injections, and nasal sprays to help.
Symptoms of nocturnal incontinence can be very disruptive to your life and cause a lot of stress. You can benefit by speaking to your doctor and taking steps to manage the problem instead of ignoring it or chalking it up to age. Set yourself up to face the problem and fix it!
