In Parkinson’s, incontinence can happen because the condition affects the way the brain communicates with the bladder and bowels.
It’s common for people with Parkinson’s to experience issues controlling their bladder or bowels.
Up to 40% of people living with Parkinson’s have issues controlling their bladder, while between 80% and 90% of people experience constipation.
Our Parkinson’s Nurse Specialist team have put together this helpful guide, which explains what incontinence is, what causes it to happen and how you can manage it.
Most common types of incontinence for people with Parkinson’s
Bladder incontinence
- Urge incontinence happens when you suddenly need to urinate and can’t reach the bathroom in time. This occurs because the signals between the brain and bladder are disrupted.
- Nocturia refers to the frequent need to urinate at night, which can disturb sleep and is common among those with Parkinson’s.
Bowel incontinence and constipation
- Constipation is a frequent problem in Parkinson’s, affecting up to 80% of people with the condition. It happens because the muscles in the digestive system slow down, making it harder to pass stool. Parkinson’s also affects the autonomic nervous system, which controls bowel movements, causing further issues.
Why constipation happens
Several factors contribute to constipation in Parkinson’s, including:
- Slowed gut motility: Parkinson’s affects the muscles of the digestive system, making bowel movements slower and less frequent.
- Lack of physical activity: Parkinson’s-related movement difficulties can make it harder to stay active, and less movement can slow digestion.
- Medications: Some Parkinson’s medications, especially those containing anticholinergic ingredients, can contribute to constipation.
- Reduced fluid intake: Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), which is common in Parkinson’s, can lead to dehydration, making stools harder and more difficult to pass.
Managing constipation and continence
Constipation and incontinence are common issues for people with Parkinson’s, so addressing them early is crucial.
Here’s a concise guide to managing these concerns effectively:
Consult healthcare professionals
- See a continence nurse: They can provide specialised advice on bladder and bowel management, suggest pelvic floor exercises, and recommend products for discreet leakage management.
- Visit your GP: Your GP can prescribe medications for constipation or bladder control, adjust your Parkinson’s medications if they contribute to these issues, and provide dietary advice.
- Talk to a neurologist or geriatrician: These specialists can review your treatment plan, reduce medication side effects, and suggest advanced therapies for severe constipation or incontinence.
Dietary and lifestyle changes
- Increase fibre intake: Adding more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your diet can assist with bulking up stools.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep stools soft.
- Eat smaller meals: This can promote better digestion and bowel regularity.
- Engage in gentle exercise: Activities like walking, stretching, or yoga can stimulate bowel function. Use a footstool while sitting on the toilet to ease bowel movements.
Use of medications and products
- Consider laxatives: If dietary changes are insufficient, your doctor may recommend appropriate laxatives or fibre supplements to assist with bowel regularity.
- Utilise continence products: Absorbent pads or specialised underwear can help manage leakage while you work on addressing the underlying issues.
For more information about incontinence or advice, please call our support line on 1800 644 189
