Incontinence

Problems with bladder and bowel control are common after stroke.  Incontinence can be frustrating, embarrassing and distressing and can impact on all aspects of life. Incontinence problems include:

• Frequency – needing to go to the toilet very often
• Nocturnal incontinence – needing to go to the toilet several times during the night
• Functional incontinence – trouble getting to the toilet due to physical or communication difficulties
• Urge incontinence – an sudden and uncontrollable need to pass urine
• Urinary retention – not being able to fully empty the bladder or holding an increasing amount of urine in the bladder.

If left untreated, your difficulties may become worse or lead to other problems. Many continence issues can be treated, better managed or cured.

An appropriate health professional can make an assessment about the underlying cause and devise a treatment plan. If you are in hospital, ask a member of the treating team about continence issues. If you need advice after discharge home, call the National Continence Helpline on 1800 33 00 66 or visit www.continence.org.au .