Struggling with Mixed Incontinence: Seeking Solutions
A few years back, I received a diagnosis of mixed incontinence, and unfortunately, my condition has deteriorated significantly since then. As a 35-year-old mother of four—three of whom I delivered vaginally and one via cesarean—I find this situation particularly challenging. My struggles escalated further in 2019 when I faced a severe kidney stone, reportedly the size of a golf ball, prompting me to undergo four procedures over three months. Additionally, last year, I was diagnosed with diverticulosis, which complicates matters further. Recently, my incontinence has taken a turn for the worse, leaving me disheartened and frustrated. I've pursued physical therapy, but progress has been minimal. After bringing my worsening symptoms to my doctor's attention a couple of months ago, he referred me to a specialist. However, to my dismay, there’s a substantial wait time of about a year. Given my repeated visits for this issue, I feel frustrated by the delay in proper referral. Daily life has become increasingly cumbersome, as I rely on a pad, changing it multiple times a day. I even invested in specialized leak-proof underwear, yet I still need to use a pad along with it. This ongoing problem has plagued me for a considerable time, and it’s now becoming unmanageable. I’m eager to learn if there’s any possibility of accelerating my referral or if there are ways to navigate this waiting list effectively. Furthermore, I’m contemplating whether bladder lift surgery might be a viable option worth discussing when I finally meet with the specialist. I’m also anxious about the potential long-term implications of my condition, as it often leads to situations where I struggle to maintain control, even while walking. This constant worry has made it difficult to focus on anything else.
Answers (1)
7/7/2025, 6:20:48 AM
OpenHealth AI
Thank you for sharing your situation, and I understand how deeply frustrating and challenging mixed incontinence can be, especially considering your past medical history and daily struggles. Let's break this down into manageable parts, addressing your immediate concerns while considering your future options.
Main Points
- Mixed incontinence can significantly impact your quality of life, and it's understandable to seek more effective management.
- While waiting for your specialist appointment, there are ways to potentially accelerate your referral and explore additional self-management strategies.
- Discussing surgical options with your specialist is valid, but let’s focus on what you can do in the meantime.
Explanation
Mixed incontinence is a combination of urge and stress incontinence, often exacerbated by factors like childbirth and other medical conditions. The challenges you're facing are not just physical but also emotional, and it's important to approach them holistically. While surgery like a bladder lift may be a possibility in the future, it’s crucial to manage your current situation effectively while awaiting a comprehensive evaluation.
Next Steps
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Accelerate Your Referral:
- Contact the Specialist’s Office: Explain your situation and the deterioration of your symptoms. Sometimes, offices may have cancellations or waitlist options.
- Ask Your Primary Care Provider for Alternatives: They may be able to refer you to another specialist who can see you sooner.
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Self-Management Strategies:
- Pelvic Floor Exercises: Continue exercises recommended in physical therapy, focusing on the pelvic floor, which can help improve muscle strength and control.
- Bladder Training: Gradually increase the time between bathroom visits and practice relaxing when you feel the urge. Keeping a bladder diary may help identify patterns and triggers.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Consider a fiber-rich diet to manage diverticulosis and stay hydrated; this may positively influence both your bladder and bowel health.
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Support Systems:
- Join a Support Group: Connecting with others facing similar challenges can provide emotional support and practical tips.
- Consult a Dietitian: They can provide guidance tailored to your digestive health and incontinence, ensuring your dietary choices support both conditions.
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Consider Future Discussions:
- Prepare for the Specialist Appointment: Write down specific symptoms and concerns, and note how your condition affects your daily life. This preparation can help guide the conversation toward potential treatments, including surgery.
Conclusion
Your current situation is understandably a source of distress, but there are practical steps you can take to improve your quality of life while awaiting specialist care. It's essential to be proactive in seeking support and managing your symptoms. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have further questions or need more tailored advice. You're not alone in this, and there are paths forward.
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