Urinary incontinence is a term used when there is a loss of urine that is accidental. The amount of urine lost can be a little or a lot. This is a problem that is more common in women, but it can also happen to men. It can occur you are asleep or awake. Sometimes the incontinence only happens when sneezing, while laughing, or coughing.

Men are more likely to have a problem with incontinence as they grow older. By age 65, five to fifteen percent experience incontinence. Some of the causes of urinary incontinence include:
* weakness of the structures that support the bladder,
* irritation of the bladder from tumors, stones, or other causes,
* problems in the central nervous system,
* nerve problems in the bladder from diabetes, spinal cord injury, or multiple sclerosis,
* blockages, often due to prostate enlargement,
* urinary tract infection, and
* effects of medication.

Because there are so many different causes for incontinence, you need to be examined if you suffer from this. There are good treatments for men with this problem. Treatments vary, depending upon the cause. Sometimes all it takes is a change in medication, or treating the underlying problem. Other times learning exercises to strengthen weak muscles will help. There are many medications that can help, such as imipramine (Tofranil). Some men who have enlarged prostate glands may need minor surgery.

There are steps that you can take to help you control incontinence:
* Empty your bladder as soon as you begin to feel pressure.
* Put yourself on a schedule, such as every hour or two hours. Try to slowly increase this time to about every three hours.
* When you know you are going to have limited access to a bathroom, avoid drinks with alcohol or caffeine.
* Learn to wear the pads and undergarments designed for adults with urinary incontinence.

With proper treatment, most men are able to increase the control of their bladders.

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