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Functional Incontinence

Overview

Functional incontinence means that you can't get to or use a toilet in time to urinate. This usually happens because something gets in your way or you aren't able to walk there on your own.

Functional incontinence usually occurs because something blocks your way to the toilet. Or perhaps you can't walk there on your own. Maybe you have a hard time removing clothing before you urinate. There might be a problem with reasoning that keeps you from realizing that you need to urinate or from finding a bathroom.

You could make a schedule to urinate at regular times before your bladder feels full. It may also help to keep a clear path to the toilet. You may want to keep a urinal or a chair commode nearby. Wearing clothes that are easy to remove can also help.

Credits

Current as of: September 25, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

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