incontinence CT scan preparation

Overview

Incontinence is the loss of bladder or bowel control. A CT scan (a special X-ray that creates detailed pictures of the inside of your body) can help doctors find what might be causing your incontinence, such as a blockage, nerve problem, or weak muscles.

Yes, incontinence is very common. Millions of people around the world experience it at some point in their lives, especially as they get older.

Incontinence can affect people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. It is more common in older adults and in women who have given birth, but men and younger people can also have it.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Leaking urine when you cough, sneeze, laugh, or exercise (stress incontinence)
• A sudden, strong urge to urinate followed by leaking (urge incontinence)
• Leaking stool or gas without control (bowel incontinence)
• Needing to urinate very often, including waking up many times at night

Symptoms in children

• Wetting the bed after age 5 or 6 (enuresis)
• Accidentally leaking urine or stool during the day
• Holding in urine or stool on purpose
• Pain or discomfort when urinating or having a bowel movement

Symptoms in older adults

• Leaking urine or stool more often, especially with movement or coughing
• Getting up to use the bathroom many times at night
• Feeling like you cannot empty your bladder completely
• Trouble reaching the toilet in time

Causes

Main causes

• Weak pelvic floor muscles (the muscles that support your bladder and bowel)
• Overactive bladder muscles that squeeze at the wrong time
• Nerve damage from conditions like diabetes, stroke, or multiple sclerosis
• Blockage or injury in the urinary tract or bowel
• Side effects from certain medicines or medical treatments

Risk factors

• Age (getting older)
• Pregnancy and childbirth, especially vaginal delivery
• Being overweight or obese
• Chronic constipation (straining)
• Prostate problems in men
• Neurological conditions that affect nerve signals

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have sudden incontinence with severe pain, fever, or blood
• If you cannot pass any urine at all
• If you have a history of cancer and develop incontinence

Book a routine appointment if:

• If incontinence is happening regularly and affecting your daily life
• If you have mild leakage that bothers you
• If you want to know the cause so it can be treated

Diagnosis

Your doctor will start by asking about your symptoms, medical history, and daily habits. They may do a physical exam, including checking your belly and pelvic area. Tests such as urine samples, bladder diaries, and imaging scans like CT can help find the cause.

Tests that may be done

• Urine test (to check for infection or blood)
• Bladder diary (you write down when and how much you drink and urinate)
• Ultrasound (uses sound waves to see your bladder and kidneys)
• CT urogram (a CT scan with contrast dye to look at your urinary tract from the inside)

What to expect at your appointment

For a CT scan to check incontinence, you may be asked to drink a special liquid called contrast before the scan. You might also be told to empty your bladder right before or to hold your urine for a while, depending on what the doctor wants to see. The scan itself takes about 10–30 minutes. You lie still on a table that slides into a large, doughnut-shaped machine. It is painless and you can go home the same day.

Treatment

Treatment for incontinence depends on the type and cause. Many people get better with simple self-care or lifestyle changes. Others need more help from a doctor, such as pelvic floor therapy, medicine, or sometimes surgery.

Self-care at home

• Do pelvic floor muscle exercises (Kegels) daily to strengthen the muscles that control urine flow
• Bladder training – try to hold urine for longer intervals to retrain your bladder
• Avoid drinks that irritate the bladder, like caffeine, alcohol, and fizzy drinks
• Stay at a healthy weight to reduce pressure on your bladder
• Use absorbent pads or underwear to stay comfortable and confident

Medical treatments

If self-care is not enough, your doctor may suggest prescription medicines that relax the bladder or tighten the muscles. There are also devices like a pessary (a small ring placed in the vagina to support the bladder) or nerve stimulation therapies that send mild signals to calm the bladder. Always ask your doctor or specialist nurse about options – do not start any new medicine without their advice.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is usually considered only after other treatments have not worked. Options may include sling procedures (supporting the urethra) or bladder neck suspension. Surgery is not right for everyone, so talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.

Living with this condition

Living with incontinence can be challenging, but with the right strategies you can still do the things you enjoy. Plan ahead: know where toilets are, carry a small bag with pads or a change of clothes, and wear dark colours to hide leaks. Most people find that getting treatment helps them feel in control again.

Lifestyle tips

• Set a regular toilet schedule – go every 2-3 hours even if you don't feel the urge
• Practice double-voiding (wait a minute and try to urinate again) to empty fully
• Wear clothes that are easy to remove quickly
• Stay active – walking and gentle exercise can strengthen pelvic floor muscles

Diet and exercise

Eat plenty of fibre (whole grains, fruits, vegetables) to avoid constipation, which can worsen incontinence. Drink enough water but limit late-night fluids. Avoid spicy foods, too much sugar, and acidic fruits if they irritate your bladder. Pelvic floor exercises are the most helpful exercise – you can do them anywhere without anyone knowing.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Incontinence can make you feel embarrassed, anxious, or depressed. This is normal but it doesn't have to take over your life. Talk to a trusted person – a friend, family member, or health professional. Many people with incontinence find support groups helpful. If you are feeling very low, tell your doctor – they can connect you with mental health support.

Prevention

Not all incontinence can be prevented, but staying active, keeping a healthy weight, avoiding constipation, and practising pelvic floor exercises (especially after childbirth) can lower your risk. If you smoke, stopping can help because coughing puts pressure on your bladder.

Complications

If left untreated

• Skin problems like rashes, sores, or infections from constant moisture
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs) that keep coming back
• Social withdrawal, loss of confidence, and isolation
• Increased risk of falls from rushing to the bathroom

Long-term outlook

The outlook for incontinence is generally good. Many people improve with simple changes or treatments. Even if incontinence cannot be cured completely, it can almost always be managed well enough to let you live a full and active life. With the right help, you stay in control.

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