Continence vs. Incontinence: What's the Difference?

There is a very small distinction between the two words continence and incontinence. As you can see, incontinence has two more letters than continence, and if you are not careful, you will misread it, which may cause trouble. Since the two have greatly diverse meanings, one refers to the control of the bladder and bowels, while the other refers to the loss of such control. Therefore, understanding these terms can avoid misreading and guarantee a healthy life. This article mainly talks about the difference between continence and incontinence, as well as some useful tips.c

What Is Continence?

Continence means having control over when and how you urinate or have a bowel movement. The muscles in your bladder and pelvic area work along with your nerves to hold and release urine when needed. This control is an essential part of patients' daliy life. 

How Does Continence Work?

The brain sends signals to the bladder when it is time to urinate.

The pelvic muscles tighten to hold urine and relax once you choose to go to the lavatory.

Sound nerves and muscles offer assistance to keep this system working appropriately.

Most patients do not think about their bladder or bowel control until they begin having problems. Continence is something we take for granted until it gets to be troublesome.
 

Who Can Have Continence Issues?

Anyone can develop continence problems. Some common causes include:

• Pregnancy and childbirth (weakening the pelvic muscles)

• Aging (muscles and nerves become weaker)

• Surgery or injury affecting the bladder or nerves

• Neurological conditions like multiple sclerosis or Parkinson's disease

• Prostate issues in men

Millions of people worldwide experience continence problems at some point in their lives. 

What Is Incontinence?

Incontinence is the misfortune of bladder or bowel control. It implies a person may spill pee or have inconvenience making it to the lavatory in time. Incontinence can be humiliating and influence a person's daily life, but it is common and treatable. According to the data, 30% of women experience incontinence at some point in their lives. 10% of men face incontinence issues, especially as they age. And Incontinence is more common in older adults, but now younger people can also have this problem. 

Types of Urinary Incontinence

1. Stress Incontinence – This happens when you leak urine while coughing, sneezing, or exercising. This is common in women after childbirth.

2. Urge Incontinence – A sudden, strong urge to urinate, making it hard to reach the bathroom in time. This is common in older adults.

3. Overflow Incontinence – When the bladder does not empty fully, causing frequent leaks.

4. Mixed Incontinence – A combination of stress and urge incontinence. 

How to Manage Incontinence?

The good news is that incontinence can be managed with the right care and products. Here are some solutions:

1. Continence Care Products

Continence care products help people manage leaks and stay comfortable. Some options include:

• Absorbent pads and underwear

• Catheters for draining urine

• Skin care products to prevent irritation

• Bed protectors for overnight use
   

2. Catheter Supplies

For people with severe incontinence or medical conditions that affect urination, catheter supplies are essential. Catheters help drain urine from the bladder and come in different types:

• Intermittent Catheters – Used when needed to empty the bladder.

• Foley Catheters – Stay in place for a longer period.

• External Catheters – Worn outside the body, mainly for men. 
  
  

3. Coude Tip Intermittent Catheters

Some people have difficulty inserting standard catheters due to conditions like an enlarged prostate. Coude tip intermittent catheters have a curved tip that makes insertion easier and more comfortable. These are especially helpful for men with urinary blockages. 
 

4. Pelvic Floor Exercises

Strengthening the pelvic muscles can improve bladder control. Kegel exercises are a great way to prevent or reduce incontinence symptoms.
 

5. Lifestyle Changes

Drink enough water but avoid too much caffeine and alcohol.

Use the bathroom regularly to prevent urgency.

Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on the bladder.   
 

Finding the Right Products

If you prefer continence care items, it is vital to select dependable catheter supplies. Bever Medical offers high-quality catheter products, continence care items, and coude tip intermittent catheters to assist patients in overseeing their bladder health with certainty.  
 

Final Thoughts

Continence implies having control over your bladder and bowels, whereas incontinence implies losing that control. Incontinence is common and can happen to anybody, but it can be overseen with the correct care. Continence care items, catheter supplies, and coude tip irregular catheters from reliable suppliers guarantee your health and safety. If you experience bladder issues, ask the specialist for help and discover the most excellent items to improve your quality of life. If you are looking for continence care products, Bever Medical can be a good choice. Any interests, welcome to contact us.