Common Causes of Incontinence: Medical, Functional, and Lifestyle

What Is Incontinence?

Incontinence refers to the involuntary loss of bladder or bowel control. It can range from minor leaks to significant voids, affecting millions of people worldwide. It can feel like an unfair opponent: disrupting your daily life, causing frustration, and sometimes making you feel powerless. It’s okay to acknowledge the challenges — it’s the first step toward overcoming them. 

What Are Common Causes of Incontinence? 

Incontinence doesn’t have a single cause, and it is even possible for people to experience more than one cause for their bladder and/or bowel incontinence symptoms. Understanding the possible causes can help recognize patterns and lead to better management.  

Incontinence can result from a variety of medical, neurological, or lifestyle factors. Understanding the root cause is essential to finding the right solutions. 

Bladder and Bowel Dysfunction (BBD) 

This common cause stems from nerve or muscle dysfunction, which can prevent proper bladder or bowel control. Other contributing factors include: 

• Medicinal side effects 

• Stress or anxiety 

• Neurological conditions such as diabetes or pelvic floor disorders 

• Injury or damage to the nerves controlling the bladder 

   

Neurological Disorders (ND) 

Because bladder and bowel control come from the brain and nervous system, certain conditions can impact the interfering with bladder and bowel control. Examples include: 

• Alzheimer’s Disease 

• Parkinson’s Disease 

• Stroke 

• ALS 

• Epilepsy 

• Traumatic brain injuries 

   

Functional Barriers 

For some, incontinence isn’t caused by medical dysfunction but by physical or cognitive barriers, such as: 

• Arthritis or mobility issues that make reaching the bathroom difficult 

• Cognitive impairments, such as dementia, that hinder communication or recognition of the need to use the restroom 

• Physical barriers in the environment, like stairs or long distances 

   

Other Factors 

Lifestyle and life stages can also play a role in incontinence. Examples include: 

• Pregnancy and childbirth: Hormonal changes and pelvic floor strain can lead to incontinence. 

• Aging: Decreased muscle strength and reduced bladder capacity are common as we age. 

• Diet and lifestyle: Certain foods, drinks, and habits (like smoking) may exacerbate symptoms.

   
   

Why Understanding the Cause Matters 

When you understand why bladder and/or bowel incontinence may be happening to you or a loved one, the next steps become clearer. Seek the help of medical professionals for the management of incontinence, and use products you can trust and feel confident in as you go about your daily routines.

Talk to Our Customer Care Experts

NorthShore’s Customer Care Experts are knowledgeable, empathetic, and 100% judgment-free. They can answer your questions, guide you through product choices, order free sample products, and help you feel confident in whatever step you take next. northshore.com/contact-us

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: What is incontinence? 

A: Incontinence refers to the involuntary loss of bladder or bowel control. It can range from minor leaks to significant voids and affects millions of people worldwide. 

Q: Does incontinence have a single cause? 

A: No, there are many possible causes, and sometimes people may have more than one cause for their bladder and/or bowel incontinence symptoms.  

Q: What are some possible causes of incontinence? 

A: Bladder and/or bowel incontinence can be caused by bladder and bowel dysfunction, neurological disorders, functional barriers, and lifestyle and life stages such as pregnancy and aging. 

Q: What neurological conditions can cause incontinence? 

A: Certain conditions can impact the interfering with bladder and bowel control, including Alzheimer’s Disease, Parkinson’s Disease, stroke, ALS, epilepsy, and traumatic brain injuries. 

Q: Can someone help me find the right products and choose the correct size?  

A: Absolutely! Our Customer Care Experts are here to help answer your questions, guide you through NorthShore’s range of products, and choose what will fit you and your lifestyle best.