Family history can play a role when it comes to your risk for developing certain bladder issues such as urinary incontinence and bladder cancer. If someone in your family has bladder problems, know the signs to look out for. As always, it’s important to let a medical professional know if you start experiencing symptoms.
Urinary Incontinence
Urinary incontinence is the loss of control of the bladder, causing you to leak urine. If you have family members with urinary incontinence, your risk for developing it is higher than average. There are a few types of incontinence, including stress incontinence, urge incontinence (overactive bladder) and overflow incontinence. You may even experience a combination of types. If you leak urine in general or while coughing, exercising or laughing, let your doctor know. You should also let your doctor know if you start feeling sudden urges to urinate. While urinary incontinence can lead to embarrassing accidents, you shouldn’t feel ashamed of or embarrassed by it. It’s common and there are treatment options to help you find some relief.
Bladder Cancer
If you have a family member who has or has had bladder cancer, you’re at an increased risk for developing the disease. According to the American Cancer Society, some people may also share changes in certain genes that make it difficult to break down toxins in the body, increasing their risk for developing bladder cancer. It’s important to let your doctor know if you start experiencing symptoms, including blood in the urine, frequent urination or discomfort during urination. While these symptoms are common in other conditions as well, you definitely shouldn’t ignore them.
At Arkansas Urology, we’re here for you. Our patients’ health has been and will always be our top priority! Do you need to schedule an exam? Contact us today to schedule your appointment, or book your appointment online.
