Urinary Incontinence is common among older people.

During urination, our bladder muscles tighten to move urine into a tube called the urethra.

The muscles around the urethra relax and let the urine pass out of our bodies.

When the bladder muscles don’t work the way they should, urine can leak.

Incontinence typically occurs if the muscles relax without warning.

The reason for incontinence for women could be:

Weak bladder muscles

Overactive bladder muscles

Weak pelvic floor muscles

Damage to nerves that control the bladder from diseases such as multiple sclerosis, diabetes or Parkinson’s disease,

Diseases such as arthritis may make it difficult to get to the bathroom in time.

Pelvic organ prolapse, which is when pelvic organs (such as the bladder, rectum, or uterus) shift out of their normal place into the vagina. When pelvic organs are out of place, the bladder and urethra are not able to work normally, which may cause urine to leak.

Male incontinence could be caused by:

Prostatitis, a painful inflammation of the prostate gland.

Injury or damage to nerves or muscles from surgery.

An enlarged prostate gland, which can lead to Benign Prostate Hyperplasia (BPH), a condition where the prostate grows as men age.

Make sure to share your concerns with your physician.

You may get a referral to see a urologist.

Next: Types of urinary incontinence