Suffering from Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI), a 72-year-old woman from Secunderabad had to stop herself from laughing for two whole decades but has now had corrective surgery.
SUI is a condition where a person unintentionally leaks urine during physical activity or when pressure is exerted on the bladder, which happens with laughing, coughing, sneezing, and more.
Rajamma (name changed) had to rely on adult diapers for 20 years. But when it worsened, she consulted Dr Sarika Pandya, who diagnosed her and suggested corrective surgery.
While interacting with the media, Dr Pandya said that after a thorough assessment, it was decided to do a surgical procedure called Transobturator Tape (TOT) for Rajamma.
Dr Shivalingaiah M, Bengaluru, said, “There are many patients who come to us very stressed about their situation as it can cause embarrassment. Even those young as 19 can be affected.”
Dr Pandya said, “Seeking help in the early stages can ensure non-surgical solutions, such as Kegel exercises and medication, averting prolonged suffering.”
Lifestyle changes, pelvic exercises, hydrating, regularising bowel movements, reducing stress, and cutting down on stimulants can help improve the symptoms.
Also, low-dose medication for bladder contraction and a botox injection can be administered as treatment options. However, for a serious case corrective surgery is the best option.