We have all often heard that suffering from a disease can increase the chances of other health issues. But does this hold true for diabetes and incontinence as well?

Diabetes is a disease related to high blood sugar levels in the body. This medical condition can further lead to complications and other health concerns. One such consequence of suffering from diabetes might be associated with sudden leakage of urine, also known as incontinence. 

To be precise, urinary incontinence is a health condition that generally prevails in elderly people and can take a toll on their physical and mental well-being. However, with the availability of products such as adult incontinence diapers, the condition of involuntary urine leakage is manageable.

Furthermore, diabetes can contribute to incontinence problems in both men and women. To help you understand better, we have discussed potential reasons for urinary incontinence due to diabetes and ways to manage it.

Reasons for incontinence due to diabetes

The following are some possible reasons behind the connection between diabetes and ufrinary incontinence:

  • Excess weight and obesity while suffering from diabetes
  • Lower immune system response due to diabetes enhances the risk of UTIs
  • Nerve damage as a result of high blood sugar levels
  • Some diabetic medications

It is to be noted here that women are more likely to suffer from incontinence problems as compared to men. Moreover, apart from these reasons, incontinence can also be the outcome of childbirth, older age, menopause, prostate problems, etc.

Managing diabetes-related incontinence

Let us look at some of the ways that can be helpful in dealing with incontinence:

  • Doing kegel exercises

Kegel exercises, also known as pelvic floor exercises, help to manage urinary incontinence by strengthening muscles that hold the urine, thus can help with incontinence.

  • Maintain a healthy weight

Maintaining a healthy weight can help you with incontinence as it will reduce the pressure on your bladder and pelvic floor muscles.

  • Using incontinence supplies

To manage incontinence, using products like adult incontinence diapers is highly recommended to add a layer of protection against sudden urine leakage.

Hopefully, the aforementioned information will help you deal with urinary incontinence caused by diabetes. Besides, it is always best to consult a doctor to seek the right treatment in case you are facing any other challenges.

 

FAQ’s

High blood sugar can cause the bladder to overwork, leading to an increased need to urinate. When sugar levels stay high, nerves around the bladder may get damaged, weakening the bladder’s ability to hold or release urine properly. This can lead to leakage, incomplete emptying, or a constant feeling of needing to go. Over time, this affects the quality of life and may result in incontinence.

Yes, diabetic neuropathy, or nerve damage caused by diabetes, often affects the bladder. It can weaken the signals between the brain and the bladder, making it difficult to feel the need to urinate or control the flow. This can cause either overactive bladder symptoms—like urgency and frequency—or underactive bladder, where the bladder doesn’t empty completely. Both cases may lead to leaks and long-term bladder issues.

Both men and women with diabetes can experience incontinence, but women may be more affected due to additional factors like pregnancy, childbirth, and menopause. These can weaken pelvic muscles. Men with diabetes may face incontinence linked to prostate issues. In both cases, nerve damage and excess urine production from high blood sugar are the main causes.

Yes, age plays a major role. As people age, their muscles—including those that control the bladder—naturally weaken. When combined with diabetes, which can cause nerve damage and increased urine production, the risk of incontinence rises even further. Older adults with diabetes should monitor symptoms closely and consult a doctor for early management strategies.

Absolutely. Managing diabetes effectively can reduce or even prevent incontinence symptoms. Keeping blood sugar levels within a healthy range helps protect nerves and reduces excess urine production. Lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, and prescribed medications can support bladder health. Regular checkups are also key to identifying early signs of bladder issues.

Common signs include frequent urination, sudden strong urges to urinate, difficulty holding urine, leakage during coughing or sneezing, and waking up often at night to urinate. Some people may also experience dribbling or a constant feeling of needing to go, even after urinating. These symptoms should not be ignored, as they may signal nerve-related bladder issues linked to diabetes.

Yes, diabetic incontinence can be managed through medical treatment, lifestyle changes, and supportive products. Doctors may recommend bladder training exercises, medications, or pelvic floor therapy. Adult diapers or absorbent pads provide daily comfort and protection. Most importantly, good diabetes management helps control the underlying causes of incontinence and improves quality of life.

Yes, several products can help manage diabetic incontinence, including adult diaper pants, absorbent pads, and waterproof bedding. These products provide day and night protection, especially for seniors or those with mobility issues. Brands like Lifree offer pant-style adult diapers with leak guards and extra absorbency, making daily life more comfortable for those dealing with incontinence.

A person with diabetes should consult a doctor if they notice frequent urine leakage, strong urges to urinate, pain while urinating, or difficulty emptying the bladder. Early medical advice helps identify the cause—whether it's nerve damage or another issue—and provides timely treatment. Ignoring symptoms may worsen the condition, so regular health checkups are highly recommended.