Managing Incontinence Related to Heart Disease
by lilia fedyanina on Feb 06, 2023
February is American Heart Month, a perfect time to think about our cardiovascular health, and it turns out there's more of a connection between our hearts and incontinence than you might expect. Did you know that some heart diseases can lead to excessive urination or urine buildup, resulting in urge incontinence?
Incontinence: the little-known symptom of heart disease
Heart disease can be an incredibly challenging condition to manage – and it is important to know that its effects extend beyond the heart itself. While many are familiar with the weight, fatigue, and chest pain associated with heart disease, its effects on the bladder often go unrecognized. Heart disease can cause extra urine production or a buildup of urine in the bladder, leading to urge incontinence: a loss of control over one's ability to reach the restroom in time.
Additionally, peripheral vascular disease– a heart-related condition caused by obstructed arms and leg arteries – can greatly hinder mobility, making it even more difficult for those suffering from heart disease to reach the restroom when needed.
Tips for managing heart-related incontinence
Congestive heart failure and stroke are life-threatening conditions caused by high blood pressure, cholesterol, or heart disease. These conditions can lead to a range of uncomfortable and embarrassing symptoms- not the least of which is urinary incontinence. Luckily, your cardiologist may be able to provide some strategies to help reduce those symptoms and maintain healthy living habits such as:
- eating a diet filled with fresh vegetables, fruit, fish, and lean meats
- exercising at an appropriate level
- avoiding harmful substances
- and reducing stress
Taking proactive steps can make all the difference in managing your health!
Heart failure and nocturia – the connection you need to know
Nocturia can have its roots in heart disease, specifically heart failure. When a person has heart failure, it makes it very difficult for their body to get rid of the surplus buildup of fluids that accumulate throughout the day. Thankfully, when you go to bed at night and lay down, your kidneys function better and help your body get rid of those extra fluids.
This is why, even if you don't drink much before bed, you may still wake up in the middle of the night having to pee.
That's nocturia! But it also might indicate that you're experiencing early warning signs of heart failure, so if this is happening to you regularly, talk to your doctor about it immediately.
That's nocturia! But it also might indicate that you're experiencing early warning signs of heart failure, so if this is happening to you regularly, talk to your doctor about it immediately.
Why frequent urination at night could be a sign of something bigger
Experiencing nocturia or frequent nighttime urination can negatively affect your overall health and could be related to heart health. Studies have linked poor sleep caused by nocturia and other bladder issues with an increased risk of developing health concerns like heart disease, diabetes, and even obesity.
While it can be tempting to try managing these issues at home, see a doctor if you're having problems; they are trained to identify any potential underlying conditions, including heart disease, prostate problems, diabetes or cancer.
What's important to remember is that bladder issues such as nocturia and incontinence are not a normal part of aging – don't dismiss them! If you want the best chance of avoiding more significant medical problems, then consider talking to your healthcare provider about any worrying symptoms.
Can medications really affect my bladder?
Medicating our bodies can be challenging; we take medications to improve our health but they can also cause some negative side effects. It's crucial to understand that many medications might affect the bladder and its ability to do its job correctly.
For example, heart and blood pressure medications, or calcium channel blockers, may lead to urinary retention and overflow incontinence—not to mention diuretics, which are commonly used for numerous conditions. While diuretics can help flush excess water from the body, they should be taken with care, especially if you're an older individual or someone who already has weakened continence.
The unseen side-effect of common medications
It's important to know how your medication might impact your bladder and discuss that with your doctor – it's everyone's duty to stay informed about potential side effects!
Are your medications making you leak?
Taking prescription medications can be a necessary part of managing medical conditions to maintain good health. However, many people might not realize that certain drugs like sleeping pills, muscle relaxants and sedatives can seriously impact bladder control. Even over-the-counter medications such as narcotics, antihistamines, antidepressants and antipsychotics could all contribute to unwanted immobility. Your doctor will help you understand if they may be contributing to incontinence and provide advice on how best to manage it.
Heart Disease: The Silent bladder destroyer
More than half of people with heart failure will experience continence issues such as urgency and urge incontinence, which can worsen day-to-day challenges. This is where Total Dry comes in - we offer premium incontinence products that ensure your protection, comfort, and peace of mind all day.
Our range is tailored for medium to heavy leaks, so you can trust that you’re properly taken care of no matter the circumstances. Check out the full range of TotalDry incontinence products!
