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Different factors can trigger urinary incontinence

According to the Mayo Clinic, urinary incontinence isn’t a disease but a symptom. It can be caused by everyday habits, underlying medical conditions or physical problems.

Available treatment for urinary incontinence includes surgery, medication and physical therapy. But some treatments have proven problematic.

Vaginal mesh implants, marketed for treatment of urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse, have prompted thousands of lawsuits due to their tendency to fail and cause health problems. The most common reported problem is the vaginal mesh eroding and sticking through the walls of the bladder and vagina, causing severe pain.

If you have problems with urinary incontinence, the Mayo Clinic advises a thorough evaluation by your doctor to help determine what’s behind it.

Causes of temporary urinary incontinence include certain foods, drinks and medications. A simple change in habits can bring relief.

The Mayo Clinic lists the following as potential causes of temporary incontinence:

Alcohol: Alcohol acts as a bladder stimulant and a diuretic, which can cause an urgent need to urinate.

Overhydration: Drinking a lot of fluids, especially in a short period of time, increases the amount of urine your bladder has to deal with.

Caffeine: Caffeine is a diuretic and a bladder stimulant that can cause a sudden need to urinate.

Bladder irritation: Carbonated drinks, tea and coffee — with or without caffeine — artificial sweeteners, corn syrup, and foods and beverages that are high in spice, sugar and acid, such as citrus and tomatoes, can aggravate your bladder.

Medications: Heart medications, blood pressure drugs, sedatives, muscle relaxants and other medications may contribute to bladder control problems.

If you have a vaginal mesh implant, you should consult with a doctor if you have any ongoing symptoms or health concerns. If you have significant injuries, you should also consult with a mesh lawyer to discuss your legal rights.

Get more information on urinary incontinence here:

https://www.mayoclinic.com/health/urinary-incontinence/DS00404