When a person does not get enough fluids it can actually cause urine odor to increase and get stronger. I was recently speaking with my friend about her mothers "unspoken about issue" and she was commenting on the strong smell like ammonia that was always present. She was worried that it was fecal or bowel incontinence and didn't realize that that was a strong and offensive urine related odor. We discussed two factors:
- Choosing the right incontinence protection item is important. My friend was fairly certain her mother was using a feminine hygiene pad rather than an incontinence garment.
- She didn't think that her mother was drinking much other than her morning cups of coffee and as little as possible the rest of the day.
Both of these factors were probably contributing to the odor and probably not helping. Also, the reduction in fluid intake was not helping control the incontinence leakage.
Generally speaking, drinking plenty of water in small amounts during the day can actually help leakage and improve bladder control as well as help reduce odors. 8 ounces with meals, sipping water between meals, and limiting liquids a couple of hours before bedtime can help. Avoiding or reducing caffeinated beverages, citric juices and carbonated beverages can also help.
All of this is general information to help ensure a person is getting enough fluids and not avoiding it to reduce urinary incontinence. My mothers friend, as well as anybody reading this that is experiencing urinary incontinence, should talk to their doctor or healthcare provider. Information like this is very generally and should never be construed as medical advice. Click here to go to a previous article regarding how to speak with your doctor or healthcare provider about incontinence.
There are many actions and steps individuals dealing with urinary incontinence can improve their situation.
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