3. Practical advice and tips for carers > Continence problems

Continence problems

4) Practical tips to cope with continence problems

Get Adobe Flash player

True /False quiz

  • Hold on to urine for as long as you can. False-This may make continence worse and the person may have more infections in the bladder.
  • Don’t drink so much so they don’t use the toilet so often. False- To function properly the bladder needs plenty of fluids but avoid caffeinated drinks or alcohol. This could encourage more urine infections, pain and discomfort.
  • Avoid becoming constipated. True- constipation can make bladder problems worse. Try to stick to a healthy diet and ask a doctor or nurse for advice.
  • Keep spare clothes in the bathroom. True – also try keeping a small bag of moist wipes, pads extra clothes and disposable bags when the person goes out. Hand sanitizer gel is also useful.
  • Allow extra time on journeys for bathroom stops. True- This could help the person to feel more comfortable and confident knowing you have planned ahead.
  • Keep skin clean, wash and dry regularly. True – this will help to prevent the skin from becoming sore or infected. Change pads regularly.

View Text Alternative

True /False quiz

  • Hold on to urine for as long as you can. False-This may make continence worse and the person may have more infections in the bladder.
  • Don’t drink so much so they don’t use the toilet so often. False– To function properly the bladder needs plenty of fluids. Water , fruit juice or cordials are best. Avoid caffeinated drinks or alcohol.  This could encourage more urine infections, pain and discomfort.
  • Avoid becoming constipated. True– constipation can make bladder problems worse. Try to stick to a healthy diet and ask a doctor or nurse for advice.
  • Keep spare clothes in the bathroom. True – also try keeping a small bag of moist wipes, pads extra clothes and disposable bags when the person goes out. Hand sanitizer gel is also useful.
  • Allow extra time on journeys for bathroom stops. True– This could help the person to feel more comfortable and confident knowing you have planned ahead.
  • Keep skin clean, wash and dry regularly. True – this will help to prevent the skin from becoming sore or infected. Change pads regularly.

If the person has difficulty passing urine or it smells strongly they should seek advice from the GP. There may be an infection which will require treatment, usually by antibiotics.

For more information please see the Bladder and Bowel Community website or call: 0800 031 5412.


This page was posted in Continence problems and tagged , . Bookmark this page.