How is Urinary Incontinence Evaluated?

To diagnose the problem your doctor will first ask about symptoms and medical history. Your pattern of voiding and urine leakage may suggest the type of incontinence. Other obvious factors that can help define the problem include straining and discomfort, use of drugs, recent surgery, and illness. If your medical history does not define the problem, it will at least suggest which tests are needed.

Your doctor will physically examine you for signs of medical conditions causing incontinence, such as tumors that block the urinary tract, stool impaction, and poor reflexes or sensations, which may be evidence of a nerve-related cause.

Your doctor will measure your bladder capacity and residual urine for evidence of poorly functioning bladder muscles. To do this, you will drink plenty of fluids and urinate into a measuring pan, after which the doctor will measure any urine remaining in the bladder. Your doctor may also recommend

     *	Stress test — You relax, then cough vigorously as the 
        doctor watches for loss of urine.



     *	Urinalysis — Urine is tested for evidence of infection, 
        urinary stones, or other contributing causes.



     *	Blood tests — Blood is taken, sent to a laboratory, and 
        examined for substances related to causes of 
        incontinence.



     *	Ultrasound — Sound waves are used to "see" the kidneys, 
        ureters, bladder, and urethra.



     *	Cystoscopy — A thin tube with a tiny camera is inserted 
        in the urethra and used to see the inside of the urethra 
        and bladder.



     *	Urodynamics — Various techniques measure pressure in the 
        bladder and the flow of urine.