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<\/a><\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThis article is evidence-based, verified by\u00a0Dr. Ahmed Zayed<\/a><\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
These methods are explained in more detail below and, if practiced religiously and adequately, can go a long way in helping the person deal with problems of incontinence. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In this post, we'll cover:<\/p>\n
Nocturnal Incontinence or Enuresis occurs when a person is unable to control their bladder while they\u2019re asleep. If this is a common occurrence with someone suffering from Down syndrome, then try to ensure that they do not drink too much water at nighttime. Avoid giving them anything to eat or drink an hour before bedtime. However, you have to make sure that the person’s overall intake of water is not affected and that they’re drinking about eight glasses throughout the day. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Caffeine can exacerbate incontinence. <\/strong>Caffeine acts as a diuretic, which means that it increases the frequency of urination when consumed. Therefore, it is best for people suffering from incontinence to avoid caffeine and only stick to fresh fruit juices, healthy organic smoothies, and plain water. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Having a healthy routine with ample physical exercise and a balanced diet will help keep the person\u2019s reflexes strong as well. Healthy neural pathways mean better control over the bladder and fewer incidents as well. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Constipation can be a cause of urinary incontinence as well. Monitor the affected person\u2019s bowel movements and their diet as well. Make sure that they are having plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables to ensure a good supply of fiber that will help to avoid constipation issues. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Urinary incontinence can be humiliating for the affected person and severely affect their mental health as well. People with Down syndrome understand emotions well and need support and love during such hardships. Providing them with the care they need will help them be more open with you and communicate better. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Instances of severe anxiety can cause urinary incontinence as well. Reducing stress and anxiety can make a huge difference in improving urinary incontinence. Some ways to reduce stress are by <\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/a> <\/li>Pelvic strengthening exercises are a great way to help strengthen the pelvic floor. This will, in turn, strengthen the muscles responsible for bladder control as well. Over time, such exercises can help reduce the severity of urinary incontinence, provided they are done regularly. Pelvic floor strengthening exercises include <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sometimes, a patient can identify when they have to go to the toilet but cannot hold it in long enough till they reach the washroom. In such cases, improving access to the bathroom can help such persons have fewer incidents of incontinence. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If the problem is severe, and severely affects the person\u2019s daily life, then you can ask their primary care physician to prescribe medication as well. Specific medications exist which help to relax the bladder walls and allow the bladder to hold more urine for a longer period. This can help patients suffering from incontinence greatly. However, only a doctor can decide if someone is the right candidate for medication and its type. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
To help the person manage urinary incontinence, you can use some appropriate aids<\/a>. These include <\/p>\n\n\n\n
As mentioned before, urinary incontinence can take a considerable toll on the mental health of sufferers. It is a difficult situation for everyone involved. However, being angry and shaming the person only makes the situation worse. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here are a few things you should avoid at all costs when dealing with a Down syndrome person suffering from incontinence: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
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<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDr. Ahmed Zayed<\/strong>, MD holds a baccalaureate of Medicine and Surgery. An avid contributor to the Huffington Post<\/strong> and Chicago Tribune<\/strong>, Dr. Zayed believes in providing accurate and accessible information to general readers. With years of writing and editing content in the medical niche, Dr. Zayed likes to think of himself as a man with a mission, keeping the internet free of false medical information. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
