URODYNAMICS
After menopause, urinary incontinence occurs more frequently. Urinary incontinence is not a normal consequence of aging. Various treatment options are available. Don't be afraid to discuss the problem with your healthcare provider. You do not have to suffer in silence.
LET'S TALK ABOUT INCONTINENCE...
How many times a day do you urinate?
What bladder problems are you having?
Are you having problems holding your urine?
How often do you get up at night to urinate?
Do you lose urine when you don't want to?
Do you leak urine when you cough, sneeze, laugh, or lift heavy objects?
Do you have to strain to urinate?
Do you have urinary hesitancy or a slow, weak urinary stream?
Do you feel that you are not completely emptying when you urinate?
Do you have constant urinary dribbling?
| Urinary incontinence,
an involuntary leakage of urine, is a common
disorder in females. Over eleven million women in
the United States suffer from this condition. The
symptoms are common in women who have been pregnant
and given birth vaginally.
|
TYPES OF URINARY INCONTINENCE:
If the muscles that keep your bladder neck closed are weak, you may leak urine when you cough, sneeze, laugh, or lift objects. This is called stress incontinence, and it is the most common bladder control problem. Stress incontinence often occurs after pregnancy or childbirth because the pelvic floor muscles stretch and weaken. The same muscles weaken more after menopause because of decreased estrogen.
Sometimes, bladder muscles become too active, causing strong, sudden urges to urinate. This is called urge incontinence. Common causes of this condition are bladder infection, nerve damage, alcohol consumption, caffeine use, and use of certain medications. Less common causes include heart disease, depression, and mobility restrictions.
Some women will have a combination of the above symptoms. This is referred to as mixed incontinence. The involuntary loss of urine associated with an enlarged bladder, or a bladder that is too full is called overflow incontinence. This may be a result of incomplete emptying of urine. The involuntary loss of urine due to limited physical mobility, or mental impairment is referred to as functional incontinence.
URODYNAMIC TESTING:
Urodynamics is a specialized series of tests used to evaluate the type and cause of urinary incontinence. Urodynamic equipment involves computerized diagnostics to fully analyze urinary flow patterns and bladder function. This information is important in making the best recommendations for incontinence treatment options.
Our machine is the LuMax Fiber Optic Cystometry System. It is the latest, state-of-the-art system available, designed for accuracy and safety. Our staff members have been specially trained in urodynamic testing procedures and incontinence problems.
The urodynamic testing procedure is performed at the office in a private testing area. It does not require the use of any medications. You will be asked to arrive with a full bladder. You will be asked to urinate in a special commode. A very small catheter is placed into the bladder to complete the series. A nurse will be with you during the entire testing, which takes about an hour. After the testing, you will be given a post-procedure instruction sheet to take home. A follow-up appointment is required to discuss the test results and treatment options.
APPOINTMENT SCHEDULING...
Urodynamic testing for urinary incontinence can be scheduled Tuesday from 8:00 AM - 12:00PM. You must have a current physical exam or referral from your primary physician. Referral records are necessary prior to testing.
It is also important to completely avoid dairy products prior to testing. This will be explained at the time of scheduling. Urodynamic testing is covered by most insurance companies. If pre-approval is required, we can assist you with that. If you have any questions about the procedure, or would like to view the testing area, please feel free to contact the office at any time.
CALL US TO SCHEDULE YOUR URINARY INCONTINENCE EXAM:
(319) 355-1853