Thursday, October 30, 2014

Overnight Options for Incontinence

Millions of people around the world are dealing with incontinence. Some ma experience an occasional leak or two, but others are dealing with a much bigger problem. Increased food and beverage consumption encourages daytime leaks. However, nighttime incontinence is not uncommon. For individuals with the latter issue, there are a multitude of overnight options for incontinence available on the market.

Adult Pads and Liners
Individuals who only need light protection can use liners and pads. They are gender-specific, and provide protection in the places where men and women need it most. They adhere directly to the inside of regular underwear, so they're comfortable and discreet.

Adult Underwear
Active individuals who need heavy protection will find adult underwear helpful. They're designed to feel as close to the real thing as possible. The absorbent material is thin and does not interfere with regular movement.

Adult Briefs
Unfortunately, some individuals are not as active as others. People who are bedridden, or less mobile, will need a different type of protection.

In terms of leak protection, adult briefs are similar to adult underwear. Instead of slipping them on or off, briefs come with side snaps. These make removal easier for caregivers.

Bariatric Briefs
Obese individuals have the option of utilizing bariatric briefs. They provide protection that's comparable to adult briefs, but they accommodate larger builds.

Bedding Sheets
For those who wish to have even more protection, absorbent sheets are available. They are able to keep fluids away from the body and protect the mattress. Unlike some of the other options, absorbent sheets can be washed and reused.

Underpads
Similar to absorbent sheets, underpads will be able to intercept leaks that manage to bypass adult briefs and underwear. They can also be washed and reused. However, they are not limited to use in the bedroom. Through their adhesive backings, underpads can be placed over chairs, couches, and any other surface that needs protecting.

Wednesday, October 29, 2014

Finding the Right Fit for Your Incontinence Products

Incontinence can be an uncomfortable or even embarrassing problem. Fortunately, there are many available options on the market that make dealing with the issue easier. It's important to choose the right product and the right size for your individual need. If you don't have the right fit in your incontinence products, you are immediately setting yourself up for the product's failure. Finding the correct size depends on the type of product you choose.

Adult briefs have a traditional design with adhesive tabs on each side to secure. The first step in finding the right fit is to obtain a waist measurement. Each brand of adult brief features a size chart on the package, and your size selection should be determined by which size includes your waist size. Make sure to check the package you are buying, especially if switching brands, as each brand has its own size chart. If your waist is larger than 60 inches or you weigh more than 300 pounds, a bariatric brief may be a better option. They are fitted with flexible tabs to ensure a better fit.

If adult underwear, which pull on similar to traditional underwear, seem like a better option for you, determine your waist size first. Just like briefs, each brand of adult underwear has a unique size chart on its package which you can use to find your waist size and choose your size. Another option in incontinence products is the choice of a liner or pad. Liners and pads are a bit more complicated in determining the proper fit for your personal needs. They come in various sizes and shapes and it's important to look at the amount of coverage and absorbency you require. If you are concerned with only small amounts of incontinence, thin and narrow pads may be the option for you. On the other hand, if you are concerned with larger amounts the products that offer full coverage and specify maximum absorbency are a better choice for you. These products may require a bit more trial and error in discovering the best option for you. With a little bit of time and thought, you will find the right fit for your incontinence products.

Monday, October 27, 2014

Incontinence and Parents: Buying the Right Products and Staying Prepared

Caring for aging parents is one of the most stressful stages in life. Mentally and emotionally, it's a challenge to countenance a reality in which the provider and caregiver suddenly becomes the one in need of care, but for the children, it's a role that's willingly assumed.

Incontinence
One specific area that's often tricky and very much uncomfortable to deal with -- for both parties -- is incontinence. There can be a number of causes for this issue, from dementia or a medication side effect to the sad reality that parents aren't physically able to make it to the toilet in time. Whatever the reason, it can be embarrassing and frustrating for both the parent and the caregiver. Below are a few tips to help deal with a parent who's incontinent.

Acknowledge the Issue
A parent with dementia might not be aware of accidents when they occur, or even after, or shame might compel them to hide the fact. Caregivers, if they are the children, might also be reluctant to accept that an accident was not a one-time occurrence but rather a new reality.

Failing to acknowledge a parent's incontinence will only lead to more accidents by not being prepared, and it will perpetuate a feeling of shame.

Take Proactive Steps to Curb Accidents
For overactive bladders, eliminating caffeinated drinks, such as coffee, tea and soda, will reduce the urge to urinate. When a parent feels the need to go, it's important for them to communicate with their caregiver to ensure they're helped to the bathroom in time. Additionally, their wardrobe should consist of clothing that's easy to quickly remove, and parents should consider wearing incontinence products like adult briefs or underwear liners.

Creating a log of daily bathroom use is also helpful for devising a schedule for bathroom breaks. If the eating schedule is consistent day after day, the bathroom schedule will be as well.

Buying Incontinence Products for Parents
Despite taking measures to prevent them, accidents will still occur, and eventually making it to the bathroom at all will cease to be an option. Thus it's important to have incontinence products on hand at all times. They include adult diapers, wipes and other cleansers, moisturizers and medicated creams to prevent sores. 

Incontinence is an unfortunate reality of getting old, but being prepared is the best way to get through this difficult stage in life.

Friday, October 24, 2014

What is discreet shipping?

A person who has used the Internet to purchase products or has watched commercials on TV may have heard the phrase discreet shipping. It's common for commercials or advertisements to mention this phrase, but they hardly ever explain what it means. So, what is discreet shipping, and what is it used for?

What is discrete shipping?


Basically, discreet shipping is a way to get a certain product without having anyone else know about it. Some items may be embarrassing for people to pick up in the store or have delivered. By using discreet shipping, shoppers don't have to have products in their cart that make them unconformable. If a consumer is uncomfortable with the idea of cashiers and other shoppers being able to see certain purchases, he or she can order an item online and use discreet shipping to make sure that potentially embarrassing items are shipped in unmarked boxes right to his or her door. By ordering online, shoppers can also browse and take as long as they need to decide on their purchases.

What type of items should be bought using discreet shipping?


There are many products that individuals may want to buy without having to explain themselves to others. One of the most common types of products, though, is medical supplies. Many people would rather keep their medical history private, so they prefer to buy medical supplies in a discreet way. For instance, quite a few people have incontinence - a loss of bladder control. This is a fairly common problem and is nothing to be ashamed of, but some individuals are uncomfortable with buying incontinence products at their local supermarket or pharmacy. These people may prefer to use discreet shipping options to order pads, liners and protective underwear.


Discreet shipping is a great way to buy products - a shopper can take his or her time while choosing products without even having to leave the house. Whether a consumer has a medical issue or has another reason for wanting to shop privately, discreet shipping is a good way to go.

Thursday, October 16, 2014

3 Tips for Living with Incontinence

Incontinence is a common condition that affects 25 million people in the United States. One in four women over the age of 18 can get the condition. One-third of women and men between 30 and 70 have had incontinence at some point in their life. Here are three tips for living with incontinence.

1. Drink more water. Although many people with the condition believe that reducing water intake is the best way to deal with the condition, the opposite is true. Too much water causes leakage and affects bladder health. When the urine becomes concentrated, irritation in the bladder occurs, increasing the likelihood leakage. Decreasing water intake does not decrease accident risks. In fact, drinking too little water increases accident risks.

2. Always have extra protection. This will give you peace of mind in the event of an accident. Always have several of your favorite supplies on hand and an extra change of clothes. It is always better to be over-prepared than not prepared. Planning ahead will provide you with the peace of mind you deserve. Identify the disposable underwear and other products that make the most sense for you, but always keep absorbency in mind when deciding on the right product for your needs.

3. Maintain a healthy weight. The heavier you are, the more stress you put on your bladder. The extra pounds lead to more bladder pressure. If you get adequate activity and alter your diet to include more fresh foods, you can shed the extra weight. In addition to weighing less, you will likely see your symptoms improve. Some researchers believe that incontinence can be prevented with the right diet.

Living with incontinence requires a little extra planning. It’s important for those with the condition to know that they don’t have to put their life completely on hold just because of the condition. While some accidents can’t be prevented altogether, being well-prepared can limit embarrassment.

Monday, October 13, 2014

Are There Special Incontinence Products for Women?

Around 17 percent of women between the ages of 30 and 59 struggle with some degree of incontinence, and the likelihood of developing this issue increases with age. However, it's not uncommon for younger women to also experience this. Incontinence can be an embarrassing problem to live with. Fortunately, there are a variety of incontinence products for women on the market that can take away a lot of the the worry and inconvenience.

Pads and Liners

These products resemble menstrual pads in both appearance and function. Like menstrual pads and pantyliners, they feature an adhesive back that fastens to normal underwear. These are more discreet and less bulky than many other options. However, they won't be able to stand up to more than mild incontinence.


Underwear

Protective underwear come as full undergarments or shields with belts. Belted shields offer more protection than pads or liners, but are slightly more obtrusive. Full undergarments offer the best level of leak protection. The only down sides are that they're more expensive and they tend to be bulky. That said, it's important to choose carefully. There are undergarments with features such as extra absorbency, odor control and those that are designed to be thinner. Choose the one that works best for you.

Bed Pads

It may also be important to protect against leakage while sleeping. For that matter, not everyone wishes to wear protective underwear to bed. This can be highly uncomfortable and may make you more vulnerable to painful chafing. People in this situation may want to consider using plastic-backed absorbent sheets. These can be placed conveniently underneath bedding and changed as needed.

Disposable or Washable

Now that you're aware of the options available to you, there's one more thing to decide. Do you want re-usable or disposable items? A variety of incontinence products for women can be found in both forms. Re-usable ones are more discreet, comfortable and environmentally friendly, and they can help you save money. However, they require time and effort to clean. Disposables can be conveniently thrown away, but they can be costly and you must keep buying them.

Nobody likes to live with incontinence, and even a mild degree of it can interfere with your daily life. That said, there are a wide variety of products out there that can make you life easier. Just be certain to weigh the benefits carefully and take your needs into account before making a decision.

Friday, October 10, 2014

Do I Have Incontinence?

Bladder leakage or loss of bladder control is not an uncommon issue. This is why more women are asking the question, "Do I have incontinence?". Laughing, sneezing, coughing and other sudden movements can result in the loss of several drops of urine. Women can also experience more significant bladder leakage during vaginal intercourse. In every instance, this issue can be both embarrassing and highly inconvenient.

Why Urinary Incontinence Develops

When people ask the question, "Do I have incontinence?", they are often curious to know more about the different factors that contribute to this problem. Most women suffer from light bladder leakage after the birth of a child. This is often due to weakening of the pelvic floor muscle and excess and prolonged pressure on the urethra and bladder. Fortunately, it is often possible to limit or control bladder leakage following pregnancy by performing kegel exercises that rebuild and strengthen the pelvic floor.

In addition to experiencing bladder leakage after pregnancy and childbirth, many women also develop this problem during or after menopause. This may be attributed to a significant decline in estrogen production which in turn leads to the weakening of the urethral tissues. Women who experience incontinence during or after menopause can also benefit from the use of kegel exercises to increase strength in the pelvic floor muscles.

Other issues that might cause urinary incontinence in both men and women include irregular bowel movements, hormone replacement medicines, diuretics, excess alcohol and caffeine, infection, nerve damage and significant weight gain.

Determining Whether Incontinence Is A Problem

There are several things that women can do to determine whether they are experiencing bladder leakage. Consulting with a doctor is the best way to get an accurate diagnosis. These professionals can use ultrasound, urinanalysis, urodynamics, cytoscopy and bladder stress tests to determine the health and functionality of the bladder, urinary tract and pelvic floor muscles. Urinary incontinence can be treated through behavioral therapy, medication to improve bladder functioning, surgery and various medical devices.

Saturday, October 4, 2014

How Do I Choose the Right Absorbency in Incontinence Products?

Everyone has different incontinence needs. You may have mild leakage and require protection for unexpected mishaps. In these instances, a pad or liner may be enough. Alternatively, you may need constant protection for moderate flow and bladder leakage; therefore, adult brief or medium absorbency adult underwear would be sufficient. If you suffer from severe bladder incontinence and heavy flow concerns, only overnight adult underwear and adult briefs for maximum absorbency will suffice.

Right Absorbency In Incontinence Products 

Spontaneous leaks triggered by laughter or sneezes are probably more of a self-conscious issue than anything else. However, if you have a full-blown problem, incontinence can be devastating. Nonetheless, regardless of how difficult the problem, choosing the right protection is crucial.

There are a number of incontinence products available on the market today. In order not to become confused with the variety of options offered, start by taking into consideration the following questions:

Which product is best suited for your incontinence volume?

Which product feels most comfortable?

How effective is one product over the other with protecting your skin?


For instance, PermaDry technology lowers the pH of urine so that it stays as close as possible to your skin’s natural pH, leaving your skin dry, healthy, and odor free. For mild incontinence, liners that pair well with regular underwear offer low-profile absorbency. If you are looking for protection against recurrent daytime mishaps, you should consider disposable underwear, which offers a high level of protection minus the thickness of nighttime or overnight undergarments.

Getting The Perfect Fit

Though incontinence aids are very well structured to absorb and hold numerous quantities of liquid, finding the right absorbency in incontinence products can be tricky. Sometimes protective undergarments do not adequately retain urine; therefore, it is vital to discover why and remedy the situation quickly. The first thing to do is change the undergarment as soon as time allows, both for skin protection and comfort. In addition:

Try your undergarment at home to determine if it is effective or not. Be sure to use a disposable under pad when sitting or lying down until you are convinced no leaking is taking place.

Check to make sure your adult diaper fits properly. If the undergarment is too small or too large, there is always a chance of leaks and extreme discomfort.

Friday, October 3, 2014

What is Urinary Incontinence?

As you or someone you love ages, there are a lot of questions that come up which you would never expect. For example, when going to the restroom becomes a challenge you may find yourself asking “What is urinary incontinence?

Incontinence can be an embarrassing situation. It’s very difficult for an adult to realize that they need some help with a most basic bodily function. Urinary incontinence can also pose a risk to health as a result of irritation to the skin.

Urinary incontinence is the condition of loss of bladder control. The severity ranges from a small amount of urine leaked with a simple cough or laugh, to an uncontrolled discharge when the sufferer cannot get to the restroom in time.

For active adults, alterations in their clothing or kegel exercises may be in order. For an elderly person who is not as mobile, then other interventions may be in more effective. The entire goal in treating incontinence is to keep the affected area dry so the skin doesn’t get irritated and infected.

The first thing to discover when deciding how to address the urinary incontinence question is how severe it is. One method to lessen accidents is to implement a toileting schedule. In some cases, the affected person cannot tell when they need to urinate. By implementing a schedule an opportunity for relief occurs even before they know it’s needed. This can reduce the number of accidents.

To protect bedding, plastic sheets may be a consideration. The caution with using these sheets is that they can trap moisture against the skin when the skin comes into direct contact with the sheets. This can cause excessive sweating. This extra moisture against the skin can cause irritation. Look for waterproof pads that have a cloth overlay to avoid this danger.

Keep in mind that the skin must stay clean and dry. When there are accidents caused by urinary incontinence be sure to clean the area with a wipe, or soapy water, and then dry. The health of the skin is important to the overall health of the person suffering from urinary incontinence.

Wednesday, October 1, 2014

How to Choose Which Compression Socks to Buy

Searching for a first pair of compression socks can be confusing to many patients. Often the information that has been given is simply that compression socks will help a problem, but the specific pressure of sock that works best is not always explained to them. Choosing a pressure that is too light may be more comfortable, but won't help symptoms enough. Choosing a pressure that is too tight will help the symptoms but compromise comfort and blood flow unnecessarily. Compression socks are best chosen based on the symptoms a patient wants to control. Here is a guide to the pressure choices and how to choose which compression socks to buy:

Lightest Pressure: Socks with a 15-20mmHg compression are considered mild to medium pressure. If swelling of the legs and feet is minor, this may be the right pressure. It is also good for early and light varicose veins, as well as a way to help prevent tired legs at the end of a long day.

Medium Pressure: Socks which go between 20-30mmHg of pressure are fully in the medium pressure category. If legs are not just tired but aching as well, this may be a better choice than mild pressure socks. This is the lightest pressure that should be used for edema issues, and it can also help moderate varicose veins. Patients who have healed vascular ulcerations should use this pressure to help prevent new ones.

High Pressure: Socks that are in the 30-40mmHg category are considered high pressure compression socks. High levels of edema and varicosities can be managed with these socks. This is the kind of socks that are usually required post-surgery to prevent vascular ulcerations or post surgery edema complications. These are also less comfortable than other socks, and can take time to get used to.

Compression socks may seem like a small fix, but the pressure on vascularly compromised areas can be a very important part of the healing and maintenance process of legs and feet. Choosing the right pressure for the problem will go a long way in making sure that problems are kept in check.