Taking care of your bladder is important for maintaining overall health and preventing issues such as urinary tract infections (UTIs) and bladder problems. Bladder health is especially important in the elderly community as a UTI can cause hypotension, tachycardia, incontinence, and even delirium. Here are some general tips for bladder health.
Stay hydrated! Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Proper hydration helps flush out toxins from your body and keeps your urine diluted, reducing the risk of bladder infections. Getting older loved ones to drink water can be challenging, but try setting a goal, or having a bottle with times of the day on it.
Limit caffeine and alcohol. Caffeine and alcohol can irritate the bladder and increase the frequency of urination. Limit your intake of caffeinated beverages and alcohol, especially if you notice they affect your bladder. I know my grandma would drink coffee all day if she had her way.
Practice good bathroom habits. Don't delay urination when you feel the need to go. Take your time and fully empty your bladder when you do go. Avoid rushing through urination, as this can lead to incomplete emptying.
Maintain a healthy diet. A balanced diet can contribute to overall health, including bladder health. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and fiber in your diet to prevent constipation, which can put pressure on the bladder.
Learn pelvic floor exercises. Strengthening your pelvic floor muscles through exercises such as Kegels can help prevent urinary incontinence and improve bladder control.
Maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight can put extra pressure on the bladder and contribute to urinary incontinence. Maintaining a healthy weight through regular exercise and a balanced diet can be beneficial.
Avoid smoking, or quit smoking. Smoking can irritate the bladder and increase the risk of bladder cancer. If you smoke, consider quitting to improve your overall health.
"A UTI in a senior can cause hypotension, tachycardia, incontinence, and even delirium."
Wear comfortable clothing. Avoid tight-fitting pants and underwear, as they can put pressure on the bladder and contribute to urinary incontinence. Also change out of sweaty clothes as soon as possible.
Manage chronic conditions. Conditions such as diabetes and chronic constipation can impact bladder health. Managing these conditions through proper medical care can help protect your bladder.
If you experience persistent or bothersome bladder symptoms, such as pain, frequent urination, or incontinence, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation. Also keep an eye on your elderly loved ones, and be sure to check for UTIs if their behavior seems off.
At LTC Consumer we believe in educating consumers on all things long term care related. We also believe in protecting retirement savings and family relationships. If you or your loved ones are curious about long term care insurance, get started today. You can watch an educational webinar, fill out a health questionnaire to see if you qualify, or speak to a specialist and find out all of your options.
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