Incontinence Products: A State of Confusion
The average person buying incontinence products for the first time, wastes $130. Consumer Research Validates Consumer ConfusionKimberly-Clark, makers of market leading brands, Depend and Poise claim that people who buy incontinence products for the first time, waste, on average, $130 on trial and error until they find a product to best meet their needs. That’s about 10 bags of products that can’t be returned once opened. What is causing this state of confusion? Lack of segment naming standards There are no naming standards for styles, and the descriptions are changed frequently. For example, undergarments are now called shields, even though there were shields that were a different product form. Depend briefs are now called Protection with Tabs while Depend Pull-On underwear is now referred to as briefs (which used to be the big adult diaper with tape tabs).Some manufacturers refer to pads for men as male guards, while others call them guards for men. Now there are shields for men, a product named Real Fit for Men and Boxers for Men.Lack of absorbency standardsThere are no standards for describing absorbency levels. One manufacturer’s most absorbent product is "extra absorbency," while another’s is "super plus." How does an individual decide?Here is a quote from a product user: "I would really like incontinence product companies to stop using names for products like "extra", "extra plus", "super", "super plus", "ultra". I mean what do those words even mean relative to each other?" Confusing and non standardized absorbency icons Each of the brands represents absorbency in a different fashion – some with drips, some with cups, others in ounces and some in ML’s. Some use dots or an absorbency scale. In February 2014, Poise changed from showing colored in pads to signify absorbency and went to drips. And, all of these icons are on different sides of the package depending on the brand. Who wants to stand in the isle looking for and trying to compare all this information? And once you figure it out, they change the packaging again when a new set of marketers takes over. Confusing product descriptors Nomenclature used to describe products is not easily understandable, especially when trying to compare brands. For example, there are ultra-thin pads, ultra-thin with wings, ultra-thin long, and moderate and maximum - yet the maximum version is not as absorbent as ultimate. This is how just one manufacturer describes its pads; another uses its own descriptions, such as moderate, heavy and overnight. How does one decide? To make it even more confusing, in 2013 the TENA people decided that people don’t want to shop by absorbency. They want to shop by ‘occasion’. So rather than using the same descriptors as the market leading Poise brand, they set themselves on an island by themselves by introducing three new descriptors – Active, Stylish and Anywhere. Since they have a small share of the incontinence category (10%) why would they not want consumers to be able to easily compare against the market leading brand, Poise? This just makes no sense to if you are wanting to grow your brand. With all the styles, sizes, absorbencies and brands, what will work best? Many people buy what they think they need, and find out at home the fit is wrong or the absorbency isn’t sufficient, which leads to wasted money and time. That’s why the average new category entrant (NCE) wastes $130 in trial and error mode. Too Much Confusing Happy TalkBy last count, there were at least 203 confusing 'happy talk' feature descriptors. Examples include Absorb-Loc Core Air Dry Layer AZS Advanced Zoning System Award-Winning Confidence Blue Stay Dry Strip Comfort Dry Cover Diamond Linear-Channeling (DLC) Dry Fast Core Fearless Protection Incontek Technology Integra Mat Bonding Multiple Insults OdaSorb Plus Reduced Roping Space Age Technology Strategic Placement of Super Absorbent Polymer The Unexpected Leak (versus the expected one?) Sam in my Pants Three Dimensional Network of Fibers Water PF Backsheet Worry Free Protection Zoned Body Fit Stores and most ecommerce retailers are of little helpA person can’t rely on help from the big box stores or internet only websites. Today’s pharmacists are filling twice as many prescriptions as they were just 10 years ago and often don’t have time to come out from behind the counter. And the 18-year-old stock person in the isle doesn’t have the answers, even if you could find one in a store nowadays. Another common problem is running out of products and finding your store is out of stock and being told "there might be more in tomorrow afternoon." Internet only sites - no one to speak withMost internet sites are just that – internet sites. There is no one you can actually speak with who is knowledgeable and ca help answer questions about incontinence products – even Amazon. Amazon offers ‘gift wrapping’ on Depends and you can add them to your ‘Wish List’. They don’t understand what consumers want. No one wants them gift wrapped or ‘wishes’ for incontinence.Follow the tampon example But what many people say they’d like is a simple system to make it easier to shop; and compare. One reader recommended something along this line: Light (8-10 oz) Medium (11-20 oz) Heavy (21-30 oz) Maximum (31+ oz) Some have suggested these could be called Sorb Standards, Capacity Certification or Leaky Laws. This is the way tampons are marketed. Nomenclature and absorbency guidelines were forced on the tampon manufacturers by the Federal Government in the 1980’s after many women died from toxic shock syndrome (TSS) following the introduction of Rely tampons by P&G. The government wanted women to be able to safely and reliably compare between brands.It is unlikely the incontinence manufactures will ever get together to agree on something like this. The answer is real help from real peopleConsumers want answers to their incontinence product questions: which product is best for my needs and which should I buy? The CareGiver Partnership provides personal help by an all-female team of knowledgeable Product Specialists who have each been a caregiver to a loved one. Since this is their only business, they know incontinence products inside and out.
Why Brushing Your Feet is Like Brushing Your Teeth
Oral health is closely tied to the overall health of your body. Problems with your oral health can be indicative of health problems elsewhere. The same is true of your feet. Brushing your feet is like brushing your teeth. It is something you should be doing daily for good health. Your feet are a microcosm of your body- The art of reflexology says that certain points of the feet correspond with different parts and organs of the body. Brushing and massaging the feet, can ease stress, tension, pain, etc. in the body, can help promote balance, and the flow of energy in the body. Thus, just like brushing your teeth, by brushing your feet daily, you promote better overall health of your body. Foot well-being can increase overall health- Your feet are often susceptible to problems. Some suffer from poor circulation in their feet. When this happens, the feet become less sensitive, and minor cuts and abrasions can become major problems. Fungus and bacteria can grow, and serious health complications can result. Brushing your feet daily stimulates them, helps them feel better, promotes blood flow and circulation, and helps prevent many of the most common foot health problems. As a result, your overall health is increased. Not to mention you avoid things like tired and achy feet, and just feel better all around. The FootMate TM System- The FootMate TM System is a great way to brush your feet each day. It is low cost, high impact, and will leave you feeling refreshed, restored, and renews. Bathing aid- The FootMate TM System is a bathing aid that you use in the shower. No bending or balancing, you simply work your feet over the bristles, using a specially formulated foot gel, and the results are cleaned, soothed, massaged, and conditioned feet. Massages, cleans, soothes, and invigorates- The combination of design and the FootMate Gel product leaves your feet feeling great. Salespeople, pregnant moms, diabetics, athletes, and anyone who finds themselves suffering from hot, tired, achy, dry, cracked heals, or other foot problems such as calluses find that the massaging, cleaning, conditioning effects are amazing. FootMate Gel- The rejuvenating gel contains antifungal, antiseptic, antibacterial, and germicidal ingredients that promote better smelling, better feeling feet. The tea tree oil and aloe, along with conditioners and mild cleansers give you a thorough clean, with a gentle touch. Your skin’s health is a serious consideration. You get the healing benefits of aloe, and antifungal benefits of tea tree oil to disinfect and cleanse damaged skin. You will see healthier toe nails, notice decreased odor, and find that rough, dry skin, calluses, athlete’s foot, and other problems are a thing of the past. Regularly brushing your feet will increase your health and well-being, help you prevent problems that are common with feet, and help you feel pampered. Olympic gold medalist in the 100-meter hurdles, Dawn Harper promotes the FootMate TM System as part of her campaign against diabetes, but also enjoys its benefits personally to help care for her gold-medal winning feet!
Bowel Incontinence Products - Help For Sufferers Who Are Immobilized
Bowel incontinence is often a debilitating condition due to the shame and embarrassment that many sufferers feel. However, there is a wide variety of incontinence products that can help patients with bowel incontinence return to their normal activities while effectively managing this problem. Many people with bowel incontinence choose to use an adult diaper to help them but there is a wide variety of other incontinence products that can be used as well. Whether the patient chooses to use adult diapers or incontinence underwear that is worn with incontinence pads there is an incontinence product that will meet their needs. Best of all, these and other incontinence supplies can be bought online at sites where they sell adult incontinence products. This eliminates the embarrassment of having to shop for incontinence products in the store and instead provides the user with privacy and discretion.Bowel incontinence is a condition that affects between 2-3% of the population. Just like other types of incontinence both genders are affected with women being more affected then men. Manufacturers of incontinence products recognize the unique incontinence product needs of both genders and have developed incontinence products for men and incontinence products for women. This wider development of adult incontinence products has left patients who have this problem more choices then ever when it comes to finding the right incontinence product to meet their needs. There is wide variety of conditions that can bring on bowel incontinence. Women often suffer from this condition due to the stress of pregnancy and the trauma that can result to the anal muscles during childbirth. However, there are many other reasons why bowel incontinence can affect both men and women. These include but are not limited to: Inflammatory bowel syndrome (IBS), cancer, previous anal surgery, diabetes, neurological conditions, stroke, and even a diet lacking in nutrition. In addition, many elderly who are bedridden become bowel incontinent due to a lack of mobility.No matter what is causing the bowel incontinence it is crucial that anyone who is experiencing symptoms contact their doctor right away. Only with a medical evaluation can the reason behind the bowel incontinence be determined and treated. Your doctor has a wide range of tests that can be done that will help determine the underlying cause of the bowel incontinence. Most of these tests can be done within the doctor’s office and are minimally invasive. No one should allow the shame and embarrassment that often accompanies this problem keep them from seeking out medical help. In addition, as with many other medical conditions the sooner you seek medical help the easier and more effective your treatment will be. While treatment is occurring patients with bowel incontinence can use incontinence products to help them manage their symptoms. It is crucial that you take the time to seek out the right incontinence supplies to meet your needs. Checking out sites that sell adult incontinence products can allow you see the range of choices that you have. Keep in mind that you may need to select several different types of incontinence products to help you manage your bowel incontinence depending on the severity of your bowel incontinence. Along with incontinence underwear and adult diapers there are also incontinence bed pads that can help to protect furniture and bedding from accidents. With both treatment and the correct management strategies many people with bowel incontinence find that they can return to normal activities.
15 Home Safety Tips for Care Givers of Dementia Sufferer
Dementia is a brain disorder that causes behavioral changes and changes in mental cognition for those living with the disease. Those living with dementia, a debilitating disease that includes the more readily recognized term Alzheimer’s disease, tend to lose the ability to remember names, arrange thoughts coherently and forget their current surroundings. As the disease progresses, communication becomes more difficult for the sufferer and agitation can occur.Creating a home that is safe and comfortable for both the care giver and individual is very important. Following are 15 simple tips that can help care givers keep those afflicted with the disease safer in their home or living space. 15 Simple Safety Tips1. Keep the home quiet and background noise to a minimum.2. Install child proof locks and latches high on doors may help deter wandering into unsafe areas. 3. Keep keys out of sight.4. Post signs on doors like the bathroom, kitchen, and bedroom. 5. Place a stop sign on the door to the exterior or unsafe areas (basement stairs).6. Place familiar items where they can be seen. This helps the individual feel safer and less agitated. 7. Organize and declutter surroundings. This reduces anxiety, one of the potential causes for wandering.8. Nighttime and sun downing (when the person becomes increasingly agitated as evening advances) can be challenging for both the care giver and the person with dementia. Modifying sleeping arrangements can help reduce the agitation. The bedroom should be cool as this is conducive to sleep and comfort. 9. Keep bedding and pajamas comfortable so they don’t restrict movement.10. Fill the sleeping area with familiar objects. Examples include a favorite soft blanket or pillow or a picture of a family member. 11. Include a nightlight. It shouldn’t be too bright as this could interrupt sleep.12. Ensure that there is sufficient night-time lighting so that if wandering does occur, it will not be hazardous. 13. Remove all cords so they don’t become a trip hazard.14. Make it easy for the wanderer to easily find the bathroom and their way back to their room. 15. Ensure the person receives sunlight during the day. This helps restore the body’s natural time clock and may help reduce issues with sleeping. There are other considerations when caring for someone suffering from dementia. With some safety precautions and comfort guidelines, those caring for suffers may reduce some of the common problems that happen in the course of the disease.
How to use adult diapers with discretion
One of the biggest concerns that is felt by people who are using adult diapers to manage their incontinence is how to do so without everyone knowing. Incontinence sufferers want to be able to deal with their incontinence without everyone around them knowing they are wearing an adult diaper. They often struggle to find incontinence supplies that will help them to manage their incontinence with discretion. However, the good news is that today there is a large variety of incontinence products from adult diapers to incontinence pads that will help you to manage your incontinence in comfort and with discretion. Here is what you need to know about how to use adult diapers with discretion- Have a plan-It’s hard to be discrete about anything if you don’t have a plan in mind. If you are worried about being discrete at work then know where the restrooms are that are the least used and where you can easily dispose of used adult diapers. If you are worried about being discrete in a social setting then take plenty of incontinence products with you since that will help you to be prepared no matter what the variables are. The bottom line is that having a plan will help you to maintain the discretion that you want while wearing adult diapers. Choose incontinence products that are easy to hide-Many times adult diapers come in bulky or even brightly colored packages. This makes it hard to conceal the extra adult diapers that you will need to take with you for changing. In addition, the bulky packaging can be noisy to unwrap. Worse yet, many adult diapers are unnecessarily bulky when worn which means that the wearer will need to carefully choose what type of adult diaper they use. You will want to try several different styles of adult diapers to see what fits best underneath your clothes and stays streamlined to avoid detection. Think about disposal-You can take lots of steps to wear an adult diaper with discretion but if you have to dispose of them in public view after you change then it defeats the purpose of being discrete. There are disposal bags that can help you to get rid of wet or soiled adult diapers with discretion. Even better many of them come with scent to help disguise what you are doing. Taking the time to consider disposal will help you to continue managing your incontinence with discretion. Choose the right type of incontinence products and adult diapers-The most important thing that you need to do is to choose the right type of adult diapers. If you wear adult diapers that are bulky and you can see them under your clothes then you won’t be as discrete as you want to be. Today, there are many adult diapers that look very similar to regular underwear. When this type of adult diaper is worn it is very hard to see that an incontinence product is being used. Today, you can even find adult diapers that come in different styles and colors which also make them easier to hide. Wear the right type of clothes-If you want to be discrete about the fact that you are wearing adult diapers then you will need to wear the right type of clothes. You should make sure that you are wearing clothing that is comfortable so that you are not pulling at it in order to adjust it for your adult diaper. In addition, you should make sure that you are not wearing pants that show your underwear when you bend over or make sure that you have a belt on. It can also be helpful to wear shirts that are longer or tucked in order to make sure that your adult diaper is not showing.
Encopresis - The Types, Causes and Treatment of the Disorder
Encopresis is a condition that is most often found in children who have been toilet trained. While there are some conditions that can bring this on in adults it is generally more common among children.Studies show that encopresis affects up to 2% of all children. Encopresis is defined as having repeated bowel movements in a location where it is not appropriate to do so. This can be a complex issue to treat and while treatment is being pursued it is important that parents take steps to help manage the issue. Many children can benefits from using incontinence underwear. This type of underwear will protect skin and clothes when the child has an accident. Incontinence underwear for children can be found on sites that sell adult incontinence products. As stated above there are conditions that can bring on encopresis in adults. This is known as a type of fecal incontinence. Adults who cannot control their bowel movements will have to deal with this problem through both treatment and management. There are a number of different incontinence products that can help. Many adults choose to use an adult diaper or wear incontinence underwear with an incontinence pad that can be changed frequently. One of the most popular fecal incontinence pads is found as part of the Abena adult diaper line.Many parents are unsure as to whether or not their child is having encopresis. The diagnostic standard is if the child continues to have bowel movements in inappropriate locations at least every month for 3 months in a row then they have met the criteria for the problem to be diagnosed as encopresis. It is important to understand that there are 2 very different types of encopresis. Knowing about the types will help to determine how to treat it. These types of encopresis are- Retentive encopresis-This is the most common form of encopresis among children. When a child has this type there is a physical problem that is occurring that is keeping the child from having a bowel movement. The child may actually wish to defecate in the toilet but be unable to due to lack of sensation, pain being experienced, or even a blockage. One of the major side effects of this condition is chronic constipation. This can be made worse by a lack of fiber, physical activity, and water. No-retentive encopresis-This type happens when the child simply refuses to have a bowel movement in the appropriate place. This is most often a behavioral issue rather then a physical one. Constipation is usually not a factor in this type of encopresis. In addition, the child may seem fearful or even defiant and use this type of behavior as a control mechanism. It is crucial to determine what type of encopresis the child has since it is important that he or she is not made to feel shame or guilt over something they cannot control. Unfortunately, many times parents criticize or scold a child over the lack of toileting skills only to find out later that the problem was beyond the child’s control. The bottom line is that if your child is experiencing encopresis then a medical evaluation is called for. You should make sure that your pediatrician thoroughly examines the child to determine if there is an underlying physical problem. When a physical problem is diagnosed then the doctor and the family can move ahead to treat it and resolve both the underlying problem and the encopresis. If a physical problem is ruled out then the parents will need to address the behavioral component of encopresis. Many children with this condition have benefited from talking with a counselor and resolving issues that have brought on this behavior.
500 Different Types of Adult Diapers - How to Sort Them Out
After the age of 60 many adults will experience problems with incontinence. It is quite common to see women experience incontinence as they go through menopause and need to use products that help to catch the extra urine that leaks from their bladder when they laugh, cough, or sneeze. This type of incontinence is known as stress incontinence and it is the most common type of incontinence experienced by both men and women. It often happens more to women that have given birth as childbirth often causes the pelvic floor muscles to stretch out and they are not as likely to hold in the urine as they once could. The weaker muscles can not only lead to urine problems they can also cause fecal problems as well.Once you have been diagnosed by your doctor you can start exploring your options to find relief from incontinence. Many women find that using adult diapers is the best option. The new adult diapers are made specifically for both sexes, making it easy to manage incontinence and to still have a social life. Since you are in the market for adult diapers, let’s go over some of the different types that are out there so you can find the one that is perfect for your condition. Some of the categories you will see include the following:· Pads or liners· Adult briefs· Protective underwear· Beltless garments· Belted undergarmentsThere are products that can be reused and others that are disposable. So which one is right for you? It depends on your situation. It helps to have a look at the many products that are out there so you can find the right one: LiveAnew BestFit As far as adult diapers go, the most popular type that is chosen are the adult briefs. These diapers are very discrete and will help you to maintain your dignity as other people will not be able to tell that you are wearing the diapers. You can purchase them in disposable diapers or in reusable ones. The reusable diapers are less expensive and they are made from cotton, which helps them to appear closely to your regular underwear. These briefs are lightweight and are going to be the best option you have if you would like to find underwear that is as close to what you are used to wearing. Protective underwear is also commonly used but it is mostly used for individuals that tend to have more urine leakage throughout the day. The padding is much thicker from the briefs and you can purchase them in a pull up diaper. For light problems, pads and liners are wonderful options. These products allow you to wear your normal underwear, you just have to attach the pad or liner to it. It has a sticky backing so that it will stay secured in place when you are wearing the pad throughout the day. Overnight diapers are commonly used for those individuals that have problems at night. Using the overnight diapers will allow you stay safe at night and really will protect your bedding! No matter which type of adult diaper you choose to use you need to make sure you are using the right product for your situation. You have to look at the different sizes and styles to find one that will be comfortable for your needs and will allow you to enjoy your life without worrying about wetness and embarrassment from urinary incontinence.
Meaningful Activities For Seniors With Alzheimer's
Seniors with Alzheimer’s often have difficulty engaging in meaningful activities. Their limitations caused by dementia and the effects of Alzheimer’s often lead to an inability to connect with and enjoy their environment as well as those around them. Game playing can be a great way to help senior’s with Alzheimer’s pass the time, while also providing a means of stimulation, memory triggering, and so much more. Alzheimer’s is a progressive memory loss disease. It starts with mild memory loss, and progresses over the course of years to severe memory loss, so much so that many who suffer from Alzheimer’s can’t distinguish dreams from reality, forget how to talk, eat, and in many cases are unable to respond to their environment. It is the most common form of Dementia, and the sixth leading cause of death in the United States. There is no cure, only treatment options and medications to lessen symptoms, and provide comfort to those with the disease. Being able to engage in meaningful activities can go a long way to lifting the spirits, as well as the cognitive function, of those with Alzheimer’s. However, many activities, including game playing, can be a challenge. Some of the issues that face Alzheimer’s sufferers that can stand in the way of playing games include: Problem solving difficulty- games cannot be complex. Memory loss- Games have to have short play times and simple rules. Difficulty remembering rules- The games have to be familiar, or have simple rules. Trouble with spatial relationships- Games cannot require building or activities that require spatial relationships. Difficulty reading, judging distance, color, contrast, etc.- They can’t involve cards, suits, etc. Even a game like Phase 10 can be too difficult if the player can’t distinguish colors. Difficulty with conversation, struggle with vocabulary- Those with Alzheimer’s often have trouble finding names for even familiar objects, so games can’t require a lot of verbal communication. Social withdrawal- Often groups of people can be overwhelming and confusing, as conversations are more difficult to follow, etc. Games have to be single player, or require only a few players to work. Difficulty remembering newly learned info- Again, this means rules have to be simple and familiar. Difficulty performing tasks that were once simple- Games that require holding cards, a seemingly simple task, can be a real challenge to someone with Alzheimer’s and can lead to more frustration than enjoyment. Difficulty with basic tasks- Rolling the dice, following a specific order of play, or exchanging items in play can be difficult. As you can see, the physical and mental limitations do not make it easy to find games to provide a meaningful activity for the senior. The R.O.S. Therapy System is a great tool for those looking to provide meaningful and useful activity for their senior loved ones with dementia or Alzheimer’s. The tray is the heart of the system, acting as a console that facilitates a variety of activity boards or games. They simply slide in when the user is ready to play, and can be switched out. The boards and console are easy to clean, easy to use, and were designed with the mental and physical limitations of those with dementia in mind. The R.O.S. Therapy System helps with the socialization, reality testing, cues for reminiscence, tactile, auditory, and visual stimulation, as well as increased avenues toward motivation. Because it can be individualized for clients and patients, it can be used to trigger memories, and stimulate conversation and connection. It offers a chance for increased self-worth, pride and esteem, while also providing an outlet for creative expression as well as fun.
Malnutrition in the Elderly: Causes, Costs and Consequences
Put simply, malnutrition is a state of nutrition (under or overnutrition) in which a lack of protein, energy and other nutrients causes measurable adverse effects on tissue and/or body form, composition, function or clinical outcome. In this section, we will focus on undernutrition as a nutritional concern.Malnutrition can be significant if a person has:a BMI of less than 18.5 kg/m2 a BMI less than 20kg/m2 and has had unintentional weight loss greater than 5% within the last 3-6 months had unintentional weight loss greater than 10% within the last 3-6 monthsPeople are also at risk of becoming malnourished if they have eaten very little or nothing for more than 5 days and/or this pattern is likely to continue. Malnutrition is, and continues to be, a serious problem in the UK. Worryingly, more than 1 in 4 of all adults admitted for a hospital stay, to a mental unit or a care home is at risk of malnutrition, which is a staggering statistic. It is a well-documented fact that worldwide, the elderly population is increasing, and with it, the incidence of malnutrition. Malnutrition is associated with significantly increased morbidity and mortality in independently living older people, as well as in nursing home residents and hospitalised patients. [5,6] BAPEN NSW 2007 revealed a high prevalence of malnutrition amongst our elderly population: 35% in adults over 80 years of age 25 – 35% in adults 60 – 80 years 25% in adults less than 60 years of age Causes of MalnutritionThere are many causes of malnutrition. These can include: Reduced intake: Poor appetite due to illness, food aversion, nausea or pain when eating, depression, anxiety, side effects of medication or drug addiction Inability to eat: This can be due to investigations or being held nil by mouth, reduced levels of consciousness; confusion; difficulty in feeding oneself due to weakness, arthritis or other conditions such as Parkinson’s Disease, dysphagia, vomiting, painful mouth conditions, poor oral hygiene or dentition; restrictions imposed by surgery or investigations Lack of food availability: poverty; poor quality diet at home, in hospital or in care homes; problems with shopping and cooking Impaired absorption: This can be due to medical and surgical problems effecting digestion & stomach, intestine, pancreas and liver /or absorption Altered metabolism: Increased or changed metabolic demands requirements related to illness e.g. cancer; surgery, organ dysfunction, or treatment Excess losses: Vomiting; diarrhoea; nutrient fistulae; stomas; losses from nasogastric losses tube and other drains or skin exudates from burns People at risk of MalnutritionThose most vulnerable to malnutrition include: People just discharged from hospital Elderly people (16% in residential care) People with cancer and other long-term conditions People recovering from surgery Consequences of MalnutritionMalnutrition can often go undetected and when left untreated, it can have serious consequences on health, which include: Increased risk to infections Delayed wound healing Impaired respiratory function Muscle weakness and depression Costs of MalnutritionMalnutrition has been estimated to cost the NHS an incredible $12 billion each year, which is more than double the projected $5.7 billion cost that will be spent tackling obesity.This cost is based on patients who suffer from malnutrition: Needing a greater number of GP consultations Needing more frequent and more prolonged hospital admissions Having a higher rates of complications and mortality compared with nourished patients Detection of MalnutritionWith patients who you suspect are malnourished (or likely to become so), it is vital you identify the problem early so you can provide support and achieve the most effective use of resources. Although biochemical measurements can contribute to nutritional assessment, none can reliably measure nutritional risk e.g. a low serum albumin is almost always a marker of an acute phase response or fluid overload rather than a marker of malnutrition.There is therefore really no alternative to measurements of weight and height, along with other anthropometric measures in specialist circumstances. These measurements can then be used with the following questions: Has your patient been eating a normal and varied diet in the last few weeks? Has your patient experienced intentional or unintentional weight loss recently? Obesity or fluid balance changes and oedema may mask loss of lean tissue. Rapid weight loss is a concern in all patients whether obese or not Can your patient eat, swallow, digest and absorb enough food safely to meet their likely needs? Does your patient have an unusually high need for all or some nutrients? Surgical stress, trauma, infection, metabolic disease, wounds, bedsores or history of poor intake may all contribute to such a need Does any treatment, disease, physical limitation or organ dysfunction limit your patient’s ability to handle the nutrients for current or future needs? Does your patient have excessive nutrient losses through vomiting, diarrhoea, surgical drains etc? Does a global assessment of your patient suggest under nourishment? Low body weight, loose fitting clothes, fragile skin, poor wound healing, apathy, wasted muscles, poor appetite, altered taste sensation, altered bowel habit. Discussion with relatives may be important In the light of all of the above, can your patient meet all of their requirements by voluntary choice from the food available? Understanding that asking these questions take a significant amount of time and expertise, a number of screening tools have been developed to help you identify whether your patient is at risk of malnutrition. Given the high prevalence of malnutrition and lack of proper management of patients in various settings, performing a routine nutritional ‘screening’ should result in early identification of patients who might have otherwise been missed.A screening tool should therefore help establish reliable pathways of care for patients with malnutrition. Screening for malnutrition (and the risk of malnutrition) should be carried out by healthcare professionals with appropriate skills and training.
Adult Diaper Brief Banks: Your Guide to Helping and Getting Help
Have you ever heard of a diaper bank? Most people have, but in regards to babies. Unfortunately, over 13 million Americans suffer from incontinence and need adult diaper briefs. And many of those who need them simply can’t afford them. Medicare and most insurances will not cover the cost of absorbent products unless the individual is living in a care facility. If they live at home, the individual often must shoulder the responsibility of cost for adult diaper briefs themselves. For many seniors and disabled individuals this means going without other necessities because their fixed income can only stretch so far. It also means wearing products too long, compromising comfort and skin health, as well as confidence, in order to make adult diaper briefs affordable. But fortunately, there are places individuals with incontinence can turn to for help with affording supplies. Adult Diaper Brief Banks are a relatively new resources, but offer aid to those who need it. The following is your guide to helping and getting help:HelpingFirst, how can you help? Diapers for adults usually cost over $100 a month. Public assistance and Medicare do not cover these costs, leaving many seniors with fixed incomes to try and figure out how to afford the products they need. There is a growing need in the US for adult diaper brief banks. The economic downturn and large senior population have contributed to this great need for adult absorbent products. And you can help by donating funds or products to diaper banks across the country. Many diaper banks have websites that accept donations as well. Another way you can help is by starting a diaper bank. There can never be too many diaper banks out there. If you do not think you can do it yourself, consider trying to convince a local organization to start one, such as a church group or local social service center. Getting HelpMost diaper banks distribute their resources using local agencies. These include agencies such as United Way, Food Banks, and religious organizations and churches. They are not distributed directly to individuals, and thus, if you need assistance, it is important to not just find the diaper bank itself, but ask which local agency manages the distribution of adult diaper briefs. It is possible to find diaper banks by doing a simple Google search. Type in "Diaper Bank" and your local area. Then call to find out if they carry adult diaper briefs, and if they do not, if they know of an agency or bank that does. They should be able to direct you where to go to get the help you need. Diaper banks are in place to help those in need. If your local diaper bank does not carry adult products and you need them, ask for them. If you can show a real need, they will likely do what they can to help fill it. You don’t have to live without absorbent products or too few, or give up something you need in order to get protection. There are alternatives, and adult diaper banks exist and can help. Find out today!
Caregivers and Social Security Disability Benefits
Acting as caregiver for someone with a debilitating condition or illness often comes with certain level of stress. Not only does caretaking require time and energy, but it also requires financial stability. When money is tight, caring for a sick or elderly individual can seem impossible. Fortunately, the Social Security Administration offers disability benefits to individuals who cannot work due to disability or illness. As a caregiver, these funds can be used to take care of medical bills, costs associated with living arrangements, or even things like food. Social Security Disability benefits may be the lifeline you need to provide a comfortable life for your loved one. Preparing for the Application For someone unfamiliar with the Social Security Disability application process, the task can seem daunting. To ensure the best possible outcome, it is important to be thoroughly prepared prior to filing your loved ones disability claim. The following information will give you a general overview of the application process and will help you get started. Step 1: Determine which program fits the needs of your loved one. The Social Security Administration (SSA) runs two separate benefit programs that each have their own eligibility requirements. It is important to learn about these programs so that you know which one best suits your loved ones needs. The first program—Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)—is funded by Social Security taxes that workers pay into the system. Therefore, eligibility is based on an applicant’s work history. To qualify for SSDI the individual that you care for must have earned a certain amount of what the SSA refers to as, "work credits". The second benefit program is called Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Eligibility for SSI is based on an applicant’s finances—not on his or her work credits. This is a needs-based program, meaning that those with limited income and financial resources can qualify for SSI. SSI is often a good option for young people and other individuals who haven’t earned enough work credits to qualify for SSDI. Step 2: Collect necessary records and documentation. The SSA requires that a large amount of documentation be submitted along with an applicant’s initial application. It is important that you collect this documentation prior to submitting your loved one’s claim. Giving yourself enough time to collect this information will prevent you from making a mistake and will save you from unnecessary stress. You will first need to collect medical records. These records are vital to receiving disability benefits because they serve as proof of your loved one’s illness or condition. It is recommended that you work closely with your loved one’s doctor or doctors to collect this information. These records may include documentation of the applicant’s diagnosis, treatments, response to treatments, hospitalizations, and medical tests. You should also ask the treating physician to supply an official statement detailing how your loved one’s condition prevents him or her from working. You may also need to collect records pertaining to your loved one’s work history and finances. If he or she is applying for SSI, you will need to gather proof of income and assets. If you find that you are having a hard time collecting any of this information, it may be in your best interest to retain the services of an attorney or advocate. A legal profession will be able to relieve you of this duty and will make sure that your loved one’s application includes the necessary paperwork. Step 3: Initiate the application process. Once you and your loved one are ready to begin the application process, you can do so online at the SSA’s website or in person at your local Social Security office. To complete the initial application, you will be asked to complete and submit a number of forms. These forms include the Adult Disability Checklist, the Adult Disability Report and an authorization to release medical information. The applicant will have to sign the forms giving permission to the SSA to obtain medical records from the applicant’s treating physicians. Make sure you submit all of the applicant’s medical documentation and any written statements from treating physicians along with the application for benefits. After you have submitted the application, you should receive a response within three to six months depending on where you live and the volume of claims being handled by your local Social Security office. Receiving a Decision Once you receive the SSA’s determination letter, you will be notified of the applicant’s approval or denial. If the applicant was denied benefits, it is important that you don’t give up. After an applicant is denied, they have the option to appeal the decision. Please note that nearly 70 percent of disability claims are denied during the initial stage of the application process. In the appeal phase nearly two-thirds of applicants are awarded benefits. Although it can be difficult to apply for disability benefits on another person’s behalf, keep in mind that these programs are here to help you. Helping your loved one apply for disability benefits can help you provide them with a more comfortable life. To learn more about disability benefits visit Social Security Disability Help.
How To Keep An Elderly Person In Bed At Night
Keeping an elderly person in their bed at night is a very important part of senior safety. Night time falls are common, and can lead to serious injury, hospital time, as well as many other problems. Proper night time care, and a few precautions can help keep an elderly person in their bed at night, and create a safer environment when they do get out of bed. Here’s what you should know: Eliminate the need to get up: The absolute best way to keep an elderly person in their bed at night is to eliminate the need to get up. Many elderly get out of bed to use the bathroom, get drinks, or simply because they can’t sleep, are uncomfortable, or are bored. Find ways to circumvent these things, and prevent the need to get up all together. Bathroom needs: The need to use the bathroom during the night is one of the top reasons elderly persons leave their bed at night. Help your elderly loved one stay in bed by providing bathroom assist products. Overnight adult diapers, bed pans, under pads, urinals, and other products can decrease the need to get out of bed, and thus reduce the risk of slips, falls, and other nighttime hazards. Drinks, food, medication: Eliminate the need to leave the bed for kitchen items, including drinks, food, and medication by using a bedside organizer, or bed stand. Include a water bottle, any needed medications, pain killers, etc., as well as a few snack items. It is also wise to put books, a reading light, and other entertainment options nearby as well. Having these items in arm’s reach helps keep seniors in bed, rather than walking around in the dark. Discomfort and boredom: Often seniors struggle to sleep, wake very early in the morning, or stay up late into the night. Being able to adjust themselves, sit up and read in bed, etc. can very useful, and protect them. Often when seniors first wake, it is easy for them to lose balance and fall. Providing tools like a BedCaddie, which is designed to help seniors adjust themselves in bed by pulling themselves up the ladder like tiers to a sitting position, can help make time spend in bed more comfortable, and eliminate the need to exit the bed. Safety rails: Safety rails can also help to keep an elderly person in bed at night, as they protect them from falling out of bed during the night, and can help them support themselves so that when they do leave the bed, be it day or night, they have something to hold on to as they climb in and out of bed. This extra support is great for helping maintain balance when groggy, or in the dark. It is also important to recognize that sometimes, despite precautions, there will be a need to get out of bed. Thus, in order to make it safer if they do get out of bed, consider the following: Clear clutter, and make sure there is a clear path to bathroom, kitchen, etc. Use light, night lights and motion sensor lights can help a lot. Make movement safe with non skid mats, lit walking paths, motion sensor lights, bed rails, and more. Make sure they have secure footing with slipper socks, or socks with traction built in. Be careful with furniture placement. The CareGiver Partnership offers 500 items for senior care and care giving, as well as a staff of knowledgeable product specialists that can help you find the best products for your unique needs. To contact a product specialist call 800-985-1353 M-F 9-4 Central.
Finally… An Incontinence Swim Diaper for Older Children, Teens and Adults
If necessity is the Mother of Invention, perhaps mothers are the best inventors. When Discovery Trekking Outfitters designed their adult swim diaper for those who are incontinent, they did so out of need. Diane, one of the partners, could not find an effective swim diaper for her teenage son, so he was not allowed in the pool. Although there were a few products available, they simply didn’t fit properly which resulted in poor containment. They were difficult to put on and rigid fabric did not allow for ease of movement. It wasn’t hard to see that the design was wrong. Finding the right fabric was a challenge. As the owner of Discovery Trekking, Diane's expertise was in specialty fabrics. She realized that she could not simply use cotton or nylon, which is what most existing swim diapers are made from. The garment had to be waterproof, but comfortable next to skin. She insisted on 4-way stretch to fit snugly and increase adjustability. The fabric she wanted did not exist, so she worked with several mills to develop what we needed. While more costly, it would have been pointless to manufacture something that wasn’t exactly right. Available in 9 sizes $50-$60 depending on size (shipping is included) Many of our clients lead active lives and are able to dress themselves, however some cannot. Therefore the swim diaper needed to open fully for ease in dressing. There are many body shapes, and the Velcro closures enable adjustments that take this into consideration. The garment can be closed on an angle to accommodate anyone, including persons with small waist and large hips, or persons with larger waist sizes and smaller thighs. This is extremely important for both comfort and effectiveness. Each swim diaper fits a waist or hip size range to allow for weight gain or loss, in sizes from x-small to 5XL.Diane did not set out to become manufacturer of continence products. In fact, Discovery Trekking has grown mainly due to the huge popularity of their specialty moisture-wicking, anti-bacterial towels, stay-dry bedding, and clothing. Most large continence manufacturers have overlooked the needs of adults that require products such as the adult swim diaper. Think of them as Little Swimmers for bigger people. Maybe the name should be named Big Dippers! We continue to provide such necessary products so others will not share the frustration Diane felt when her son was not allowed to swim. LiveAnew sells adult swim diaper products, including adult and youth swim diaper choices, adult size swim diaper reusable products, and adult swim diapers in several colors. Adult swim diapers allow people with fecal incontinence to get back into life. We have swim diapers in many youth and adult sizes and in several colors. Whether you have a special needs child or experience incontinence yourself, these swim diapers allow you to enjoy life a bit more. Adult swim diaper products allow you to confidently spend time at the beach or in the pool. Youth swim diapers help older children or very small adults. An adult size swim diaper allows you to use the pool because they provide containment for fecal incontinence (not urine). An adult swim diaper or youth swim diaper can be very comforting for those who could not otherwise swim in the pool Get Back Into Life! It seems like only yesterday that Kimberly-Clark introduced Little Swimmers brand swim pants. They were an instant sensation and many pools required them. They were fine for babies and little kids... but that was all. Until now. The new Swim Pants are designed to be worn next-to-skin under a swim suit. They are specifically made for bowel containment. Also works great as a cover up for disposable or cloth diapers The Nitty Gritty Comfortable fit: High tech stretch polyurethane fabric with soft fleece lining Fits comfortably and discreetly Wear under a bathing suit, next to skin Worn under swim suit: Designed for bowel containment with strong velcro closures Versatility: Also great as a diaper cover for cloth or disposable diapers Security in the pool: Elastic waist & legs for added security Polyester/Spandex blend bonded to a waterproof polyurethane shell. Latex free. 9 sizes for a perfect fit: XS to 5XL; fits waist/hip sizes 22" to 58" - unisex Women order by hip sizing; men by waist Machine wash warm; hang to dry Not returnable Need a pair custom made for a pre-teen or larger child who has outgrown disposable swim diapers like Little Swimmers. Call us at 1-800-411-3008
Home Safety Hazards: 10 Places to Look for Potential Dangers
As we move toward our senior years, we need to take steps to protect ourselves from our homes where injuries can occur. Something that may not have been dangerous in the past like your bed can now be one of the worst potential hazards in your home. Here is a list of 10 potential dangers that are prevalent in your home and what you can do to prevent serious accidents and injuries from occurring. The bathroom. This is perhaps one of the most well-known places for injuries. Slips in a wet bathtub or falling off a toilet can break a hip, an arm, or a leg. To prevent serious injuries from occurring in the bathroom, you should install safety bars in the bathtub along with raised toilet seats with safety bars. Also included with safety bars in the bathtub, you might consider purchasing a seated chair so you don’t have to try and stand the entire time you are in the tub. A showerhead with a hose will allow you to cleanse your body without standing or needing to hold onto a support bar the entire time. To find nice shower seats and raised toilet seats with support bars, visit: http://www.caregiverpartnership.com/category/2. A textured bathmat is another wise purchase to prevent falls in the tub. Falls in the home are one of the scariest things for seniors. Scatter rugs in the home can easily cause you to lose your footing and fall down, possibly causing you to break some bones. Always wear a safety device to contact emergency responders in case you have an accident and you are unable to get up. You should use non-skid rugs and floor cleaners to prevent falls on slippery surfaces. Vision problems. The older we get, the worse our vision will get. When you are walking through your home, it can be difficult to see in poor lighting and you can run right into a large piece of furniture if you are not careful. Use bright lights to keep your home well-lit so you can see around dark corners. Bright lights will also help you when you are in the bathroom and kitchen and you are focused on cooking and washing. The stairs are one of the biggest dangers in the home. Make sure your stairs have safety railings installed so you can hold them as you go up and down. Your strength will start to fade as you get older and it may be wise to install a seated chair lift that will move you up and down the stairs. Keep the stairs clean and free of clutter to prevent tripping and falls down the stairs. Your bed is another safety hazard in the home as you can roll right out of bed if you are not careful. Purchase a safety railing that will keep you from falling out of bed and can also help you climb in and out of bed during the night and in the morning. A safety harness will strap you down into bed so you do not need to worry about rolling around and falling out of bed as well. Rearrange the furniture in your home to move it out of high traffic areas. Since you may be hard of hearing, push your chairs and couches closer together so you can be in close proximity with your loved ones and you will be able to hear what they are saying. If you still have problems hearing, consider using a hearing aid or amplifier. Here is a great hearing aid device: http://www.caregiverpartnership.com/landing/nexear. Walking around your home can get tedious and it may be quite painful for your joints and legs. A nice transport chair will allow you to easily get around your home and you will not need to deal with pain anymore. Use ramps on the stairs so you can easily move from room to room. Remove cords from dragging all over the floor as you can trip and fall on them and they can be hard to push the wheels of your transport chair over. Reduce the water temperature in your home to prevent scalding. This is also a safety concern for children, not just elderly individuals. Remove clutter from your home as it can be a hazard. You can easily trip and fall over a sock or cord that is in the way. Stretching your muscles to reach cups and things that are high up can be painful. Instead of using a stool, you may try using a reaching device that will grab onto anything you need that is up high or down low.
How To Increase Your Bladder Control Protection
While caring for my mother and helping her manage her incontinence I began to notice that the incontinence product she was using was not offering enough protection. More and more frequent changes needed to be made and often times I had to help my mother change clothes and even clean up leaks and accidents on furniture and bedding. The situation was highly frustrating and embarrassing for Mom. A friend introduced me to the idea of using a booster pad with a more absorbent garment. Booster pads are designed to fill up and then over flow into the garment below. Regular feminine care or incontinence pads are not. Prevail Bladder Control Pads Ultimate-16" are made to help a regular incontinence product provide a higher level of protection against leaks and accidents. While they can be used by themselves, when they are used with another incontinence product for moderate to heavy incontinence they can provide higher levels of absorbency and reliability. Many people who are dealing with incontinence prefer to have to simply change their incontinence pad rather then constantly having to change their adult diaper. Prevail Bladder Control Pads-16" can help you to effectively manage your incontinence or that of someone in your care. Following are 3 reasons Prevail Bladder Control Pads Ultimate-16" can be the right incontinence product to help you manage your needs are: Prevail Bladder Control Pads are shaped to fit the body. The makers of the Prevail line - First Quality Products, do this by having a pad which will fit easily against the body with an outer fabric that is cloth like. This not only makes the incontinence pad more effective it is far more comfortable for the wearer. With Prevail incontinence pads there is no reason to put up with a bulky and ill-fitting pad in order to get the protection you need. Prevail Bladder Control Pads have technology which helps enhance their protection. This incontinence product features the Target Acquisition Zone and the Blue Stay-Dry Strip. This means any liquid will be wicked away from the skin. When urine is kept locked away from the skin then the wearer can count on the ultimate in skin dryness and leakage protection. In addition, this incontinence product also will stay secure due to the fact it has a full-length adhesive strip to hold it in place. Prevail Bladder Control Pads offer a higher level of protection due to the size of the incontinence pad. The 16" pad provides the longest pad length and absorbency in the Prevail line. Users of this type of incontinence supplies can be assured the longer coverage will give them the additional protection they are looking for. In addition, this incontinence product can be used day or night for additional protection. Incontinence Products. A State of Confusion Consumers are very confused about which incontinence products will work best for them or a loved one. In a recent study, Kimberly-Clark, makers of Depend and Poise brands, discovered that those buying incontinence products for the first time, waste $130 on average in trial and error mode. That’s about 10 bags of products that can’t be returned, once opened. That’s why the Free & easy BestFit was developed.
Heard of Over Active Bladder? What About Under Active Bladder?
Learn more about Symptoms and Causes of Under Active Bladder Patients with an underactive bladder are unable to produce an effective voiding (emptying) contraction. This is sometimes referred to as voiding difficulty. The International Continence Society refers to the condition of detrusor under activity, defined as a contraction of reduced strength and/or duration, resulting in prolonged bladder emptying and/or failure to achieve complete bladder emptying within a usual time span. It is characterized by the loss of usual sensation of the bladder filling and failure of the detrusor muscle to contract as forcefully as it should, resulting in incomplete bladder emptying. This condition has also been referred to as a hypotonic or flaccid bladder or detrusor hypoactivity. The prevalence of underactive bladder remains unknown.Symptoms include: Frequency Incomplete bladder emptying Incontinence Urgency Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections A symptom of voiding difficulty is the complete inability to void a full bladder. Other symptoms caused by voiding difficulty may be incontinence leading to skin problems and recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs). Some patients describe the need to 'double void'. Common Causes of Under Active Bladder The most common causes of detrusor underactivity can be classified as:NeurologicalDamage to the peripheral nerves of the bladder or the lower spinal cord may cause the sensation of bladder filling to be absent or reduced, and the bladder is emptied by frequent voiding of small amounts of urine. Large residual volumes may accumulate (500-2,000ml), which are associated with difficulty in emptying the bladder and overflow urinary incontinence.Patients with spinal cord lesions frequently present with lack of detrusor-sphincter synergy and it is a particular feature of voiding difficulties in older people following CVA. Normal voiding also relies on a synergy between the bladder contracting and the bladder neck opening. When this is interrupted, the patient will experience constant urinary urge due to detrusor contraction and inability to relax the internal sphincter. The result is incomplete bladder emptying with significant residual volumes and urge incontinence.Suprapontine lesions usually result in detrusor areflexia (a non-contractile bladder). The bladder fails to empty because it has little muscular activity and assisted voiding may take place bystraining. The patient may present with symptoms of incomplete bladder emptying, frequency and urgency, but on further examination there is a poor flow rate and often a significant post-void residual urine volume.MyogenicWith parasympathetic nerve stimulation the muscarinic receptors in the bladder should contract. Following an epidural this muscle activity may be absent or reduced, leading to acute retention of urine and insidious voiding difficulty. Ischaemia of the detrusor can also be the result of unrelieved urine retention.IatrogenicIt is reported that 80 per cent of patients with voiding disturbance after pelvic procedures will resume usual voiding within six months. Injury to the hypogastric, pelvic and sometimes the pudendal nerve supply results in damage to the sympathetic, parasympathetic and somaticnerve fibres. Decreased parasympathetic nerve supply results in decreased bladder contractility and potentially areflexia.AgeingIn addition to metabolic changes, the volume and elasticity of the bladder can change as we get older. The amount of nerves per mm2 of muscle decreases with age and occurs to the same extent in men and women.ObstructionProstatic enlargement which causes obstruction is due to hyperplasia or, less frequently, prostate cancer and urethral strictures. Severe vaginal prolapse can lead to obstructed voiding. Faecal impaction is a well recognised cause of obstruction.InfectionCystitis, urethritis or vulval abscess cause acute retention because of the reduced contractility of the detrusor muscle.MedicationDrugs with antimuscarinic properties block the chemical transmission of acetylcholine so that the muscles relax - examples are tricyclics, antihistamines, ganglion blockers, alphaadrenergic stimulants, phenothiazines and monoamine oxidase inhibitors.Spinal cord injuryThe degree of dysfunction is related to the severity and level of impairment. For example, if the injury is above T12, the patient may have a reflex bladder action, which will require minimal intervention. The bladder still has some or all of its reflexes. Patient with injuries at L1 andbelow, for example, in spina bifida, may have a flaccid bladder which does notcontract. Bladder emptying may need to be assisted. Used with permission by the UAB Foundation Learn more about Bladder Control Basics.
After My Daughter Olivia Was Born, I Began To Experience Accidental Bowel Leakage (ABL)
Don't let ABL negatively impact life after child-birth. Having a child was one of the best things my husband and I ever did. I do not regret getting pregnant, nor bring Olivia into the world, but after having her, I began to experience accidental bowel leakage. While I was prepared for some of the unpleasant things that can result from childbirth, such as weight gain and stretch marks, I had no idea I was going to have to deal with ABL. It is so frustrating and embarrassing, and sometimes I can’t help but wish I had known the risks before getting pregnant. I know that any problem or side-effect is worth it to have this beautiful little girl, but ABL has negatively impacted my social and work life, my confidence, and has even changed my personality. I am turning into a recluse. What can I do? ABL is the accidental leakage of stool or gas. Over 2% of the population has ABL, and yet that does not make it any less embarrassing. The soiled underwear, the fear that a fart will be a shart, and the odor and discomfort are all part of ABL. 1 in 5 women over age 40 experience ABL. Pregnancy can lead to ABL because the sphincter muscles can be stretched and damaged during pregnancy and labor, or the nerves may be damaged. This can mean the sphincter no longer adequately controls the anus, keeping it closed. This can lead to stool leakage and/or the inability to control gas. For some the symptoms are minor, while for others they are more severe. Are women who have ABL after pregnancy without hope? Is the damage irreversible? Is having ABL the price for having a baby like Olivia?Fortunately, even when the sphincter muscles are injured or damaged during childbirth, if the problem is recognized and repaired, there is a good chance of proper healing and a full recovery. However, it can take time for proper healing to take place. So how can you get tested, treated, and manage symptoms in the meantime? The first step is to talk to a doctor. The doctor will ask questions to evaluate things like your bowel habits, other medical problems that could contribute to your incontinence, and the severity of the symptoms you have. The doctor will examine the sphincter muscles, rectum, and lower colon, and may order some tests for the pelvic floor and nerve function. X-rays may be needed to determine the area of injury and to check for rectal prolapse. Your doctor will then offer a treatment plan which may include things like a diet change, pelvic muscles exercises (Kegels), and possible medications or medical treatment. To manage your light ABL while waiting for treatment to work and correct the problem, consider Butterfly pads. The Buttefly pad is a new kind of discreet protection for ABL. It fits comfortably and invisibly in the buttocks, providing secure protection without the discomfort, bulk, and embarrassment of traditional fecal incontinence products. It has an absorbent core, odor protection, and stay fast wings to give protection you can count on. Learn more about ABL, and visit here to see this innovative new product and order a sample to see if the Butterfly could be your solution for peace of mind, confidence, and protection while treating your ABL.
