MORE THAN 40 PERCENT OF WOMEN IN THE UAE SUFFER FROM URINARY INCONTINENCE, AN EMBARRASSING CONDITION THAT CAUSES THE INVOLUNTARY LEAKAGE OF URINE. THE WORST PART IS MANY WOMEN AVOID SEEKING TREATMENT BECAUSE OF EMBARRASSMENT AND SHAME. HEALTH LEARNS MORE…

A HIDDEN DISORDER
Dr. Zaki Almallah, a consultant urologist and physician explains that urinary incontinence is an issue in the UAE because many women suffer in silence. He elaborates, “It’s embarrassing for many women because wetting oneself continues to be a taboo subject. But the earlier women report the condition to their physicians, the easier the treatment will be and the success rate will be higher.”

IMPACT ON LIFESTYLE
Urinary incontinence can have a negative impact on a person’s lifestyle because of the social stigma attached to it, points out Dr. Almallah. “Not only can it affect social and personal relationships, it can also hinder physical activity, affect a woman’s career, and socially isolate them as they are too worried to go out as they fear wetting themselves in public,” he tells.

TOP TIPS TO CONTROL URINARY INCONTINENCE

• Limit caffeine consumption.
• Avoid bladder irritants such as citrus juices, carbonated drinks, and spicy foods.
• Train your bladder to hold more urine.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Strengthen your pelvic floor muscles by doing Kegel exercises at least three times a day.
• Avoid artificial sweeteners that contain aspartame as they can also act as a diuretic.
• Keep a bladder diary to help your doctor plan your treatment.
• Follow your doctor’s treatment plan, which may include medication.

(Credit: Dr. Zaki Almallah, consultant urologist and physician)