Loss of bladder control (incontinence) generally affects men less frequently than women. However, the condition becomes increasingly common as men age, such that equal numbers of men and women have bladder problems once they live beyond age 80.
Treating incontinence starts with figuring out why the problem is happening. The reasons that men lose bladder control include the following:
Non-cancerous growth of the prostate gland (benign prostate hypertrophy, or BPH;
Urinary tract infections;
Damage to the bladder or prostate from surgery or radiation treatment;
Medications;
Nerve damage, which may be caused by diabetes, surgery, spinal cord injuries or multiple sclerosis;
Severe or chronic constipation;
Other medical problems including diabetes, heart failure, and arthritis (which may make it hard to reach the toilet in time).
Men who are having difficulty with bladder control should see their doctor for an evaluation. Don't let embarrassment stand in the way -- incontinence is a common problem, and your doctor may be able to offer some simple, effective treatments. For example, adding a medication can help the incontinence caused by benign prostate enlargement, while stopping a medication might help incontinence that's caused by a drug side effect.
Men whose problem cannot be fixed or treated can still find helpful ways to cope with the problem, including use of incontinence pads or special catheters.
