Bladder and Bowel

It's essential to be aware of bladder and bowel problems, and taking steps to minimise their impact can improve your well-being and reduce the risk of falls.

By addressing bladder and bowel challenges, staying adequately hydrated, maintaining a balanced diet, and seeking professional guidance when needed, you can reduce the risk of falls associated with these issues. This proactive approach enables you to enjoy greater comfort, stability, and confidence in your daily activities.

Bladder and Bowel Challenges That Increase the Risk of Falls

Certain bladder and bowel problems may elevate the risk of falls:

• Strong urge to urinate: A sudden and strong urge to urinate can lead to hurried movements, increasing the risk of stumbling or falling.
• Urine infections: Infections in the urinary tract can cause discomfort and affect mobility.
• Frequent urination: Passing urine more than 10 times in 24 hours or having to visit the toilet more than twice during the night can disrupt your sleep and increase falls risk.
• Constipation: Experiencing hard bowel movements less than three times a week can lead to discomfort and contribute to instability.
• Diarrhoea: Urgent and loose bowel movements can necessitate quick and sometimes unsteady movements.

These issues may be aggravated by factors such as inadequate hydration and excessive consumption of caffeine or alcohol. You can take proactive measures to support your bladder and bowel health:

• Aim to drink 6 to 8 cups of fluids daily, but minimise drinks containing caffeine or alcohol.
• Maintain a balanced diet rich in fibre, including wholegrain bread, cereals, peas, beans, fruits, and vegetables, to alleviate constipation.
• If you experience nighttime difficulties accessing the toilet, consider using a commode or urinal for convenience.

Seeking Professional Guidance

If you encounter ongoing issues related to your bladder or bowel health, it's essential to speak with your GP. They can provide a continence assessment and offer further support or guidance tailored to your needs.

Pelvic Floor Exercises for Additional Support

To strengthen your pelvic floor muscles and enhance bladder and bowel control, consider incorporating pelvic floor exercises into your routine. These exercises can be particularly beneficial for women.

For more information on pelvic floor exercises, explore the following resource:

NHS UK: Pelvic Floor Exercises