Overflow incontinence is a urinary condition that leads to involuntary leakage of urine due to the bladder's inability to empty itself completely. This type of incontinence often leads to constant dribbling or leakage of urine. 

During overflow incontinence, you may or may not have the urge to urinate but can release only a small amount. Since the bladder fails to empty itself properly, it becomes excessively full, leading to subsequent urine leakage.

Overflow incontinence presents challenges beyond urine leakage, you may also experience difficulty starting to urinate and have a weakened urinary stream. The accumulation of residual urine in the bladder can become a breeding ground for bacteria. This condition can increase the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs).

The primary cause of overflow incontinence is chronic urinary retention, where the bladder cannot fully empty itself completely. This can occur due to weakened bladder muscles or an obstruction in the urine flow.

Any blockage or narrowing of the urethra or bladder neck can affect the flow of urine from the bladder, leading to incomplete emptying. Causes of obstruction may include:

• An enlarged prostate can constrict the urethra, making it difficult for urine to pass through. This obstruction can also result in thickened and weakened bladder walls. 
• Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a non-cancerous condition that often causes prostate enlargement in men.
• Prostate cancer can contribute to an enlarged prostate, affecting the bladder flow.  
• Tumors and urinary stones can cause blocking of the urethra, hindering urine flow.
• Urethral stricture is the narrowing of the urethra that can be caused due to swelling from infection or scar tissue from surgery. It can occur in either men or women and makes it difficult for urine to flow out of the bladder. 

Men are more likely to experience overflow incontinence than women because it is often caused by prostate-related conditions.

Various factors and health conditions can affect and damage the nerves that control your bladder function. This can disrupt the signals between your bladder and the brain, leading to incomplete emptying. 

Nerve damage can be caused by:

• Diabetes 
• Multiple sclerosis
• Alcoholism
• Parkinson's disease
• Spinal cord injuries, back problems, and back surgery
• Surgery or trauma to the pelvic area

Weak bladder and pelvic floor muscles can also impact urine retention and release. Additionally, certain medications, including anticonvulsants and antidepressants, can affect your bladder function. Diuretics, which increase urine volume, may also exacerbate overflow incontinence.

Common symptoms of overflow incontinence that you may experience include:

• Unexpected and involuntary urine leakage, sometimes occurring without the urge to urinate
• Dribbling of urine
• Frequent but small urinations
• Weak urine stream during urination
• Constant sensation of fullness in the bladder even after urination
• Difficulty starting urination
• Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs)

The management of overflow incontinence includes various treatment approaches to address the underlying causes of your condition. Treatment options may include:

• Bladder Training: It involves scheduled voiding at regular intervals to gradually increase the capacity of your bladder and improve control over urination. This technique helps retrain your bladder muscles and reduce symptoms of urinary urgency and frequency.
• Pelvic Floor Exercises: Targeted exercises, such as Kegels, can help strengthen the muscles that support your bladder and other pelvic organs. Regular practice of pelvic floor exercises can help improve bladder control and reduce urinary leakage.
• Medications: Certain prescription medications can help manage your symptoms by improving bladder function or addressing underlying contributing causes. These medications can help relax your bladder muscles, reduce urinary urgency, and improve bladder emptying.
• Catheterization: Catheters are thin, flexible tubes that allow urine to drain out. Catheterization involves inserting a catheter into the bladder to drain urine from the bladder. Catheterization may be necessary in case of severe overflow incontinence.

Axonic Therapy uses nerve stimulation to improve bladder function. It involves the implantation of a small device in your lower back region that delivers electrical impulses to your sacral nerves. Axonic Therapy is an effective, long-lasting, and minimally invasive approach to treating overflow incontinence. 

At Northwest Continence Center, our expert surgeons have extensive experience in performing spine-related surgeries, including the Axonics implant procedure. With a focus on meticulous attention to detail and precision, we strive to minimize risks and optimize treatment outcomes for our patients.

Overflow incontinence can be challenging as it can disrupt your daily routine. At the Northwest Continence Center, we specialize in offering Axonics Therapy as an advanced and minimally invasive treatment option tailored to alleviate your symptoms. 

Our dedicated team provides personalized care, addressing your unique needs and conditions to help you live a worry-free life.

To arrange a consultation with our team, please call us at 503-885-1515 or request an appointment online. We look forward to assisting you on your journey to improved well-being.