Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Urge incontinence is a need to urinate that is so strong that you can't get to the toilet in time. It can occur when the bladder contains only a small amount of urine. Some people have no warning before they accidentally leak urine. Others may leak when they drink water or hear running water. Causes of urge incontinence include age-related changes, medical conditions such as stroke, and the side effects from medicines. Urge incontinence may be caused by an obstruction to the bladder outlet (such as from an enlarged prostate) or with overactive bladder. Overactive bladder makes a person feel the need to urinate often. If you have urge incontinence, you may feel a sudden urge to urinate and the need to urinate often. The urge is so strong that you can't reach the toilet in time. With this bladder problem, you may leak a large amount of urine that can soak your clothes or run down your legs. Urge incontinence is often first treated with: Your doctor may talk to you about making changes in your diet and lifestyle. For example, limit caffeine, carbonated drinks, and alcohol. They make you urinate more. Medicines may also be used. These include: For urge incontinence that hasn't been controlled by exercises or medicine, treatments include: Current as of: November 15, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Current as of: November 15, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review Board This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content. To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise.org. © 1995-2024 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.Topic Contents
Urge Incontinence
Condition Basics
What is urge
incontinence?
What causes
it?
What are the
symptoms?
How is urge
incontinence treated?
Related Information
Credits
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Current as of: November 15, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review BoardUrge Incontinence
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.