incontinence X ray explained

Overview

An incontinence X-ray is a special type of X-ray that helps doctors see your bladder and the tube that carries urine out of your body (urethra). It is used to find out why you might be leaking urine or having trouble controlling your bladder.

This X-ray is not done for everyone with incontinence. It is a specialized test used when other exams haven't given a clear answer.

The test is mainly used for children and adults with repeated urinary tract infections or unusual incontinence symptoms. It may also be used before surgery for incontinence.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Leaking urine when you cough, sneeze, or exercise
• A sudden strong need to urinate that is hard to control
• Wetting yourself during sleep
• Feeling like your bladder is not empty after you urinate

Symptoms in children

• Wetting the bed after age 5 or 6
• Having to urinate more than 8 times a day
• Pain or burning when urinating
• Cloudy or strong-smelling urine that might mean an infection

Symptoms in older adults

• Leaking urine with little or no warning
• Getting up many times at night to urinate
• Difficulty starting the urine stream
• Dribbling after you think you have finished

Causes

Main causes

• The bladder muscle may be overactive and squeeze without warning
• The ring of muscle that holds urine in (urethral sphincter) may be weak
• A blockage in the bladder or urethra, such as from an enlarged prostate or a narrowing
• Nerve problems from conditions like diabetes, stroke, or spinal cord injury

Risk factors

• Getting older
• Having given birth vaginally
• Being overweight or obese
• Smoking (which can cause chronic coughing and weaken pelvic muscles)
• Having a family history of incontinence

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• You cannot urinate at all and have severe pain
• You see bright red blood in your urine
• You have a fever along with trouble urinating

Book a routine appointment if:

• You have been leaking urine for more than a few weeks and it bothers you
• You get up to urinate more than twice a night regularly
• You have pain or burning when you urinate

Diagnosis

Your doctor will start by asking about your symptoms, medical history, and doing a physical exam. They may also test your urine for infection. If the cause is still unclear, they might recommend an incontinence X-ray to see how your bladder works in real time.

Tests that may be done

• Urine test (urinalysis) to check for infection or blood
• A bladder diary where you record how much you drink and when you urinate
• Ultrasound to measure how much urine stays in your bladder after you go
• Urodynamic tests that measure bladder pressure and flow
• Incontinence X-ray (voiding cystourethrogram) – dye is put into your bladder through a small tube, and X-rays are taken while you empty your bladder

What to expect at your appointment

The test takes about 30 to 60 minutes. You will lie on an X-ray table. A thin tube (catheter) is gently inserted into your urethra to fill your bladder with contrast dye. You may feel some pressure or a need to urinate. While the dye is going in and while you urinate, X-ray images are taken. The test is uncomfortable but not painful. You will be able to go home afterwards.

Treatment

Treatment for incontinence depends on what the X-ray and other tests show. The goal is to help you gain better control of your bladder and improve your quality of life.

Self-care at home

• Practice pelvic floor exercises (Kegels) to strengthen the muscles that control urine flow
• Train your bladder by scheduling toilet visits and gradually increasing the time between them
• Drink enough fluids but avoid drinks that irritate the bladder, like caffeine and alcohol
• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on your bladder

Medical treatments

If self-care is not enough, your doctor may recommend medications that relax an overactive bladder or tighten the urethral sphincter. These medications come as pills or patches. Physical therapy with a specialist can also help. In some cases, devices like a vaginal cone or a urethral insert are used.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is considered when other treatments have not worked and incontinence is severe. Options include sling procedures to support the urethra, bladder neck suspension, or artificial urinary sphincter. Your doctor will discuss which procedure might fit your specific situation.

Living with this condition

Living with incontinence can be challenging, but many people manage it well with the right tools and habits. The incontinence X-ray helps your doctor find the exact problem so you can get the best treatment for you.

Lifestyle tips

• Wear absorbent pads or protective underwear to stay dry and confident
• Plan ahead – know where toilets are when you go out
• Use a portable urinal or a bedpan if getting to the toilet is difficult
• Talk to your partner or family so they can support you

Diet and exercise

Eat plenty of fibre to avoid constipation, which can make incontinence worse. Drink water evenly throughout the day rather than gulping large amounts. Avoid spicy or acidic foods if they bother your bladder. Regular physical activity like walking or swimming helps keep your weight and muscles healthy.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Incontinence can be embarrassing and stressful. It may cause you to withdraw from social activities or feel anxious. Remember that it is a medical condition, not your fault. Many treatments are available. Talking to a counsellor or joining a support group can help you cope.

Prevention

Not all types of incontinence can be prevented, but you can lower your risk. Keep a healthy weight, exercise your pelvic floor regularly, avoid smoking, and treat constipation promptly. If you have a chronic condition like diabetes, managing it well also helps protect your bladder nerves.

Complications

If left untreated

• Skin rashes or infections from constant wetness
• More frequent urinary tract infections
• Falls and injuries when rushing to the toilet
• Social isolation and depression

Long-term outlook

Most people with incontinence can be helped. The incontinence X-ray is a safe test that often provides the key to a correct diagnosis. With the right treatment – whether it's exercises, medication, or a minor procedure – many people see great improvement. You can look forward to returning to your normal activities with confidence.

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