Over active bladder syndrome (OAB) is the most common cause of urinary incontinence in the older population (Gadgil and Wagg, 2008). Many women do not seek medical help and advice as they consider it to be an inevitable part of ageing. It can have significant impact on sufferers' lives and can contribute to an increased risk of falls, reduced quality of life, social isolation and depression. It is also known to be hugely underreported as patients are often too embarrassed to discuss their symptoms with members of their family or health professionals. OAB syndrome can however, be treated effectively in primary care with conservative, nurse-led treatments. This article will discuss the causes, implications, assessment and conservative treatments available to women over 65 years old presenting with OAB syndrome in primary care.
Urinary incontinence is a common hidden problem which affects up to 30% of older people (Nazarko, 2008). It is often ignored or not treated effectively and often women suffering with urinary incontinence do not present to primary care practitioners, as they perceive it as an inevitable consequence of ageing. This article aims to discuss the types of urinary incontinence and treatments available to older women presenting with urinary incontinence in primary care.
Urinary incontinence is a common and usually hidden issue that can affect women of all ages. It is often ignored by the patient because of their misconception that incontinence is an inevitable consequence of ageing and their low expectations of successful treatment. There are various types of incontinence, with symptoms that can significantly affect patients' quality of life. This article aims to enhance nurses' understanding of the types of urinary incontinence affecting women, associated risk factors and continence assessment, as well as the initial investigations and conservative treatments that can be instigated by general nurses. It also discusses some of the advanced treatments offered by specialist services. The article emphasises the importance of undertaking a holistic continence assessment to ensure appropriate continence care is provided, and how tailoring this care to the individual can improve adherence to treatment plans.
Overactive bladder (OAB) syndrome is a common condition that can significantly affect a sufferer's quality of life. Treatments for OAB are varied and although conservative measures are used initially, antimuscarinics are often the mainstay of treatment. This article will look at treatments available for those presenting with OAB, as well as the medications available to help improve the symptoms.
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