Let's Discuss Incontinence


By Theresa Miller


The problem seems obvious enough. Someone is experiencing loss of bladder control. But unless you're a caregiver or deal with this condition yourself, it's difficult to fully understand just how embarrassing and debilitating it can be. Incontinence keeps otherwise active people at home...afraid to have an "accident". The damage to upholstery, mattresses, and car seats is costly. It also requires extra laundry and clothing changes-- often unexpectedly.

Incontinence catches many people off guard. They're surprised to be facing this new life challenge and know so little about it that the learning curve seems overwhelming.

Others may first hear about the condition because their doctors have warned that it might follow childbirth, or a series of treatments for, say, prostate cancer. There are also those facing incontinence who may be in denial and would rather avoid their newfound hurdle. There's a stigma surrounding this topic that is somewhat paralyzing. For adults, the most troubling thought may be the idea of wearing diapers again. Statistics show that, on average, it takes six years for an incontinence case to be addressed. It's no wonder the solutions seem out of reach.

If people can get to the point where they will discuss this topic with their doctor or family members-even do research online-- some real solutions can be found. Companies like HANNAH Home Medical & Supply have made the management of incontinence a primary focus. HANNAH also seeks to help remove the stigma surrounding incontinence by using tasteful humor in its educational seminars or advertising in some unexpected ways which helps break the ice and gets people talking.

The best approach to incontinence management starts with candidly discussing this topic with a trusted physician, caregiver, or family member. Realize that while the people you entrust with your challenge may not have the ideal answers, it's the right place to start. Some recommendations may be specific exercises, medications, and/or surgical interventions. Some respond favorably to such treatments, but initially, most people will need to start with some absorbent products. There's a wide array of styles and quality from which to choose; but buyer beware. The biggest complaint about the readily available items purchased from your local grocer or drugstore is the high 'squeeze-out' rates due to poor absorbency. This could mean changes three times more often compared to other patented products that feature super-absorbent polymers. With the better quality products, not only are changes less frequent, but the occurrence of urinary tract infections, skin irritation, and odor is greatly reduced. Some are laboratory-tested under pressure to guarantee that a high volume of fluid is retained. And less changes for the wearer means less hassle and more value.

This is good news for those in a little denial or others who are simply unaware that there are solutions within reach. Talking matter-of-factly about an initially embarrassing topic is eventually where most people arrive. Then, at that point, solutions are easy to find. In the case of HANNAH Home Medical, those solutions are also delivered discreetly right to your door. It should be reassuring to learn that guaranteed products that truly work in the management of incontinence are available if we only begin discussing this topic.

Theresa Miller is the Community Relations Director for HANNAH Home Medical & Supply. To see the full line of products offered by HANNAH and for a FREE sample, go to http://www.HANNAHhomemedical.com where 5% of all sales go to the customer's preferred charity. To request a phone conference or personal presentation about the topic of incontinence, call Ms. Miller at 1-877-794-2662.

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