Monday, December 30, 2013

Support Groups and Organizations for Incontinence

Incontinence has a way of significantly affecting the lives of people who suffer from it and their families. A person with urinary incontinence inevitably experiences a wide range of emotions including sadness, emptiness, anxiety, deflated self-esteem, and embarrassment. For their loved ones, there’s the feeling of guilt and stress of finding proper ways to deal with the condition. 


In order to better understand incontinence, one should take the time to learn about its causes, symptoms, treatments and coping techniques. Whether you are having a bladder problem yourself or providing care for an incontinent parent, you will be more able to manage incontinence with the help of support groups and organizations that aim to raise awareness on this condition. They can equip you with ample knowledge on why it happens and who are often victimized.


Incontinence should not be feared because it is not a disease but a symptom of an underlying problem. It is treatable and although not all types can be prevented there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing a bladder problem. Being well-informed is always a good start.


Below are some online resources which offer substantial information on incontinence and support for people going through this condition.


National Association for Continence (http://www.nafc.org/)


This non-profit organization is dedicated to improving the quality of life of people with incontinence, voiding dysfunction, and related pelvic floor disorders. They provide plenty of resources to educate the public about the causes, prevention, diagnosis, treatments, and management alternatives for incontinence. They maintain a database of healthcare professionals specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of incontinence.


Underactive Bladder Foundation (http://www.underactivebladder.org/)


This non-profit entity is maintained by unpaid volunteer. They offer valuable resources for both patients and physicians to increase awareness on bladder problems. They work in partnership with other reputable organizations namely The Melbourne Bladder Clinic, The Caregiver Partnership, Alliance for Aging Research, Urodaily, and Taiwanese Continence Society.


Urology Care Foundation (http://www.urologyhealth.org/)


This is the official foundation of the American Urological Association. It offers loads of useful information about incontinence, overactive bladders and other urological symptoms, conditions and treatments. It also features healthy living tips on bladder care for children and adults alike.


International Children’s Continence Society (http://www.i-c-c-s.org/)

This organization aims to improve the quality of life and the life expectancy for all growing individuals with deficient bladder function. Here you can download booklets and leaflets on incontinence, constipation, bedwetting, and other problems of the urinary bladder and of the bowel.


Interstitial Cystitis Network (http://www.ic-network.com/)

This California-based organization is dedicated to providing education on interstitial cystitis, overactive bladder and other pelvic pain disorders. For more than 15 years it has provided 24/7 support to patients in need, conducted vital research, and provided webinars/lectures geared at raising awareness. The ICN Support Forum is where you can browse topics relevant to incontinence and get interactive with people who are experiencing similar crisis.


Incontinence Support Center (http://www.incontinentsupport.org/)


This online community was established to provide comprehensive and accurate information as well as offer support about incontinence. Here you can join forums and live chat to gain insights about the topic and share your own story to help unburden yourself.



Read more at >> Support Groups and Organizations for Incontinence

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