30th Jun, 2025
TL;DR: A bladder diary is a tool used to track urination frequency, the amount of fluid intake and urinary leaks. It helps to identify patterns and issues like incontinence and frequent urination. The diary provides key information to guide medical decisions such as recommending suitable treatment options, including surgery or lifestyle changes like reducing caffeine intake. A bladder diary should be kept for at least… Read more »
27th Jun, 2025
TL;DR: Fluid intake directly impacts incontinence symptoms; proper hydration aids bladder health, reducing incontinence. Drinking more water produces lighter urine, calming the bladder, while less intake leads to darker, acidic urine that irritates the bladder. Oversupply of water stresses the bladder due to frequent urination, while too little causes salt and water retention leading to swelling. Adults should drink 6-8 cups of fluids daily, spread… Read more »
25th Jun, 2025
TL;DR: Insurance may cover bariatric surgery with conditions such as a BMI over 40, documented attempts at weight loss, and mental health assessment. For verification, call your insurer or check online. Bariatric clinics can also guide in insurance matters. Gastric bypass costs around $3,500 to $10,000 with insurance, reduced from $25,000 to $30,000 without it. Financing options include medical loans, payment plans, HSAs, FSAs, grants,… Read more »
23rd Jun, 2025
TL;DR: Menopause results in lower estrogen levels, causing changes in the urinary system. These changes include dry, thin bladder and urethra linings leading to discomfort and bladder problems such as frequent, urgent urination and leakage. The decline in estrogen also increases the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) and causes urogenital atrophy which affects bladder control and causes nocturia. Symptoms disrupt daily life, may lead… Read more »
20th Jun, 2025
TL;DR: Urinary incontinence has six main types: stress, urge, overflow, functional, reflex, and mixed incontinence. Stress incontinence is due to weak bladder muscles and can improve with pelvic floor exercises or surgery. Urge incontinence, often connected to an overactive bladder, is fixable with surgery if other remedies fail. Overflow incontinence is caused by the bladder not fully emptying and can be helped with surgical removal… Read more »
18th Jun, 2025
TL;DR: Your post-bariatric surgery diet progresses in five stages: clear liquids, full liquids, pureed foods, soft foods, and solid foods. Begin with clear liquids for hydration immediately post-surgery. No caffeine or sugary drinks; opt for water, broths, and sugar-free gelatin. Introduce full liquids on days 3-7 with protein-rich options like protein shakes and plain Greek yogurt. Avoid chunky soups and high-fat dairy. Weeks 2-3 consist… Read more »
16th Jun, 2025
TL;DR: Sacral neuromodulation is a procedure using a device to correct nerve signals to bladder or bowel, improving urinary and fecal control. It works by sending small signals to the sacral nerve, restoring communication between the brain and body. Sacral neuromodulation can treat overactive bladder, urge incontinence, urinary retention, fecal incontinence, and chronic constipation. The system is composed of the lead (wire), stimulator (signal producing… Read more »
13th Jun, 2025
TL;DR: Pack extra incontinence supplies, backup clothes, and stay organized. Implement fluid management, taking small sips of water regularly while avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and soda. Plan your bathroom breaks, knowing restroom locations at airports and along your travel route. Choose aisle seats on planes, and plan pit stops on road trips to ease restroom accessibility. Wear loose, dark clothing to hide leaks and consider using… Read more »
11th Jun, 2025
TL;DR: To qualify for bariatric surgery, one typically needs a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or more, or 35-39.9 with serious health conditions such as diabetes or sleep apnea. Common health issues that may emphasize surgery necessity include type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, high blood pressure, heart disease, and joint pain. Candidates must be at least 18-years-old with no maximum age limit, although health… Read more »
9th Jun, 2025
TL;DR: Aging weakens pelvic floor muscles, causing incontinence. Strokes and falls further increase the risk. Physical therapy can help, with surgery offering more significant improvements. Fear of incontinence-related leaks can cause social isolation, mental distress, and depression. Incontinence care for the elderly involves managing diapers and maintaining cleanliness to avoid skin breakdown. Surgery can eliminate the need for pads, leading to improved mobility and sleep.… Read more »