Bladder and Bowel

Bladder and bowel problems can increase the risk of falls, but steps can be taken to minimise their impact.

Being proactive by staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet, and seeking professional guidance if needed, can help to reduce the risk of falls associated with bladder and bowel problems. 

Bladder and Bowel Challenges That Increase the Risk of Falls

Certain bladder and bowel problems may elevate the risk of falls:

• Strong urge to urinate - Rushing to the toilet due to a sudden and strong urge to urinate can make you more likely to stumble or fall.
• Urine / water infections - Infections in the urinary tract can cause discomfort and confusion and affect mobility.
• Frequent urination - Passing urine more than 10 times in 24 hours or having to visit the toilet more than twice during the night can disrupt your sleep and increase falls risk.
• Constipation - Experiencing hard bowel movements and opening your bowels less than three times a week can lead to discomfort and contribute to falls.
• Diarrhoea - Urgent and loose bowel movements can lead to quick and sometimes unsteady movements and also cause dehydration.

These issues may be aggravated by factors such as dehydration and excessive consumption of caffeine or alcohol. You can take proactive measures to support your bladder and bowel health:

• Aim to drink 6 to 8 cups of fluids daily, but minimise drinks containing caffeine or alcohol.
• Maintain a balanced diet rich in fibre, including wholegrain bread, cereals, peas, beans, fruits, and vegetables, to alleviate constipation.
• If you experience nighttime difficulties accessing the toilet, consider using a commode or urinal by the bed for convenience.

Seeking Professional Guidance

If you encounter ongoing issues related to your bladder or bowel health, it's essential to speak with your GP. They can refer you for a continence assessment and offer further support or guidance tailored to your needs.

Links and Resources

To strengthen your pelvic floor muscles and enhance bladder and bowel control, consider incorporating pelvic floor exercises into your routine. These exercises can be particularly beneficial for women.

For more information on pelvic floor exercises, explore the following resource:

NHS UK: Pelvic Floor Exercises

If you have not already done so, please take our Self Assessment:

Take our Self Assessment