Traveling with bladder problems
The next toilet rarely seems further away than when you have to pee during a long trip. But if you suffer from an overactive bladder, chances are that next stop will come too late. Traveling with bladder problems complicated? Not with these 5 (five) tips.
TIf you suffer from bladder problems such as overactive bladder, which requires frequent urination, traveling can be a challenge. But that doesn’t mean you can’t go out at all; just that you might need to prepare a little better. That’s how you do that:
Tip 1: Traveling by plane
Are you going by plane? In that case, try to reserve a seat next to the aisle. This way you can reach the toilet a little faster in the event of an emergency. Using the right incontinence material will keep you comfortable during take-off and landing.
Tip 2: Wear the right protection
Most women (and men) know that a sanitary towel is not a solution for urine loss. It is better to use special incontinence material for the right protection. These products are available in different grades, from light urine loss to heavy urinary incontinence. Are you on the road for a longer period of time? Then wear slightly heavier incontinence material than you normally would, for example night pads. Then you know for sure that the absorbent capacity is large enough to absorb any accidents.
Tip 3: Plan your toilet route
An easy way to reduce the chance of accidents is to go to the toilet at set times, whether you feel the urge or not. For example, go every two hours, or on any other schedule that suits you. So make sure you know where the toilets along the route can be found before your trip and plan your trip so that you can visit one regularly.
Tip 4: Make sure you have extra with you
Put in your bag as standard a bag with some extra incontinence material, a spare pair of underpants and some plastic bags to put used bandages in if there is no trash can available. You probably don’t need those spare clothes, but it does give you a sense of security.
Tip 5: Watch what you eat and drink
Of course it’s great fun to try all kinds of local dishes and drinks while traveling, but realize that you don’t know whether they will irritate your bladder. Coffee, tea, soft drinks and alcoholic drinks stimulate urine production. This means that your kidneys will produce more fluid to process these drinks and your bladder will be full again faster. Carbon dioxide, alcohol and caffeine also stimulate your bladder, so limit their intake. Also try to avoid chocolate and spicy foods. Here’s a blog of other foods that can irritate your bladder.
