Incontinence can be devastating for those who want to live everyday life. Not being able to control your bladder is an embarrassing condition. However, it doesn’t mean you can’t live a decent life. Many people live with incontinence for years, and you can use that knowledge. Here are some tips on dealing with incontinence in complex social situations.
Be smart about your liquids.
The first thing to be aware of is that you should be more aware of your liquid consumption. The more you drink, the fuller your bladder. That is not a situation you want to be in. However, the other side of the issue is dehydration. Keep your water drinking to 7 glasses a day. Remember that you will also get water from other sources like fruits and vegetables. You should also be aware of the other liquids you can drink. Alcohol and caffeine may not be water, but they fill your bladder faster.
Know where the bathrooms are
If you don’t want to suffer an embarrassing accident while socializing, you should know where the bathrooms are to relieve yourself. It can be awkward, but it is safer for you to do this. Some incontinence issues come from keeping it in too long. Being confident that you can find relief quickly can help ease the stress of your condition.
Plan ahead
Since you know your condition, you should be taking steps to plan for it. Of course, you already know about the bathrooms, but you should also know your triggers. For example, if a specific action like heavy lifting can trigger your bladder, avoid it as much as possible. Besides that, you should also plan your trips. If you must be in a car for a long time, you need one of the several incontinence devices available. They can range from simple pads to actual diapers. Having them ready and replacements will help ensure you can still have an active lifestyle.
Get a support network.
Any physical condition can be a challenge. No one can do it all alone. If you suffer from incontinence, you should contact your loved ones. They can provide the support and help you need to handle your condition better. For example, if you need someone to cover for you or rescue you during social events, a friend or a relative can help. Besides that, it feels much less embarrassing when your friends know and accommodate your condition. They can help get necessary replacements or even buy them if you run out. It makes the entire situation much more manageable.
Suffering from incontinence is not the end of your social life. You still have to go to the doctor to get some form of diagnosis, but incontinence is very treatable. While you get better, you need to learn to manage your condition correctly. The tips above should go a long way in helping with that.
