It isn't just the elderly who struggle with bladder incontinence. Anyone can develop bladder problems, leading to embarrassing leaks that can confine many people to their homes in fear of public embarrassment. Children with emotional disorders or hereditary conditions often struggle with its symptoms. Women who are pregnant or who have had multiple pregnancies likewise may experience it. Athletes who run frequently and intensively may develop a sensitive bladder. Yet, there are things you can do to manage this problem and enjoy freedom of movement once again.

1. Get a medical diagnosis. Your doctor can order tests to find out what is causing your bladder leakage. It may be a problem that can be corrected by surgery. Find out how serious your problem is, the long-term prognosis, and any options that may exist with respect to having surgery. Also, ask about possible surgical and anesthesia-related risks.

2. Better yet, you may be able to improve your bladder's ability to retain fluid by practicing Kegel exercises that strengthen the bladder walls and pelvic floor. Many people, especially women, report success from practicing these exercises. Even if your bladder improvement is just temporary, you can do the Kegel exercises again later if the condition should return.

3. Some people may be eligible to take medication to improve bladder control. This works well with younger patients for those with few additional health problems. Find out if you are eligible to try it by asking your doctor.

4. Stop drinking fluids after 6 p.m. Those who drink less fluid in the evening may experience less leakage overnight. The same holds true for the daytime; if you plan to go out, don't drink as much before leaving the house so you won't have as great a need to void or experience fluid leaking while running errands or driving your car. When you plan to get most of your fluid intake, try to be at home around those times to avoid possible schedule disruptions or unpleasant surprises.

5. Wear special padding as needed. Incontinence pads and products are available from drugstores, pharmacies, and supermarkets. Wear a pad anytime that you feel prone to leakage, whether at home or in public.

Ask your doctor what you can do to improve your bladder's condition. Some foods may be helpful in helping to eliminate excess fluid or strengthening the bladder walls. Shedding extra pounds will take some of the pressure off your bladder, and you may need to change the way you exercise to put less stress on this vital organ, and thereby relieve some of the pressure that causes leaking. Browse websites dedicated to this topic to learn more about how to keep your bladder healthy and which products are best able to help you do that. Your doctor will be able to provide guidance toward good sources of information and appropriate medical support. Don't suffer in silence anymore. Get the help you need to regain your confidence and composure.