Parkinson’s disease is often known for movement-related symptoms, but for some people, Parkinson’s can affect bladder control, too. Some people living with Parkinson’s may experience urinary urgency, frequent urination, incontinence, or difficulty fully emptying the bladder.
Depending on your symptoms and your healthcare provider’s recommendation, bladder management options may include lifestyle changes, medications, incontinence supplies, or intermittent catheters.
What is Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that primarily affects movement but can also have non-motor symptoms.
It occurs when nerve cells in the brain that produce dopamine become impaired or die. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that sends messages to the part of the brain that controls movement and coordination. As Parkinson’s progresses, the amount of dopamine produced in the brain decreases, leaving a person unable to control movement normally.
However, it doesn’t only impact motor function. It can affect mental health, breathing, and even digestion.
What are the Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease?
At first, the earliest symptoms may be hard to notice right away. However, the Parkinson’s Foundation provides a list of 10 early symptoms to spot, such as a loss of smell or increasingly smaller handwriting.
Here are some of the other symptoms of Parkinson’s disease as it progresses:
- Tremors or shaking in hands and limbs
- Slowed movement
- Rigid muscles
- Impaired posture and balance
- Loss of automatic movements like smiling or swinging arms as you walk
- Speech changes like softer volume and slurring
Symptoms and their severity may vary from person to person.
How Parkinson’s Disease Affects the Bladder
For some people, Parkinson’s disease may impact bladder function and urinary control. This may cause symptoms like:
- Increased urgency and frequency of urination
- Nocturia (urinating at night or during sleep)
- Urinary incontinence and bladder leakage
- Incomplete bladder emptying or difficulty emptying the bladder at all
Bladder control issues due to Parkinson’s disease may occur because it can impact the nerves that control the bladder muscles. Understandably, all these issues can further impact the overall quality of life and lead to issues like depression and isolation.
What Are Some Treatment Options for Bladder Control with Parkinson’s Disease?
While there is no known cure for Parkinson’s disease, specialized doctors and healthcare providers may be able to offer several options to help control or reduce the worst symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, including issues with bladder control.
Talk with your healthcare provider to see what they recommend for you.
Can Intermittent Catheters Help with Bladder Issues?
Intermittent catheters may help some people manage incomplete bladder emptying or urinary retention when recommended by a healthcare provider.
For some people, intermittent catheterization may help support independence and daily bladder management.
Choosing the Right Catheter for Bladder Management with Parkinson’s Disease
When choosing an intermittent catheter type for your needs, several factors come into play. In addition to your health insurance plan’s coverage for catheters and your doctor’s prescription, you’ll want to consider what feels easiest to use, most comfortable, and fits your body and lifestyle.
Some people with Parkinson’s may have tremors, stiffness, or limited hand dexterity, which can make self-catheterization more challenging.
However, there are still options. 180 Medical carries several catheters for limited hand dexterity.
If your healthcare provider recommends intermittent catheterization as a bladder management option, a trusted family member or a caregiver can also help with performing catheterization.
Of course, your urologist or prescribing healthcare provider is the best resource for determining what’s right for you. But if intermittent catheterization is the best option, 180 Medical is here to support you.
We can help you explore catheter options, understand your insurance coverage, and send free catheter samples when available.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Information provided on 180medical.com should not be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions about your condition, treatment, or medical supply needs.
