Diagnosis of incontinence can start from detail medical history of the patient, physical examination, and bladder function tests.
Incontinence diagnosis
For better diagnosis of bladder problems, the doctor may need your medical history:
- List of medicines taking to include prescribed and over the counter medicines.
- Drink fluids regularly; including sodas, coffee, tea, and alcohol.
- Quantity of each drink has in an average day.
- Inform doctor about any recent surgeries or illnesses.
- Finally, keep a record of the times; when are the urine leakages? Note what physical activities are doing at the time such as coughing, laughing, sneezing, or exercising. Whether have an uncontrollable urge to urinate when heard of running water?
Physical examination for incontinence diagnosis
A detailed physical examination is required to assess the causes of the bladder control problem.
- Checking reflexes can help to assess the possible nerve damage.
- Diagnose urine sample for a urinary tract infection.
- The exam may include a pelvic exam.
- Tests may also include taking an ultrasound picture of the bladder.
- Examine the inside of the bladder using a cystoscope (a long, thin tube that slides up into the bladder through the urethra).
Bladder Function Tests
Pressure test to measure the bladder pressure at which leakage starts, by filling the bladder with a warm fluid. Stress test is by relaxing followed by a strong cough to see if urine leaks.
Bladder testing may sound embarrassing, but the health professionals who perform the tests will make you feel comfortable and give enough privacy.