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Ask The Doc: How Do I Avoid Leaks When Visiting Loved Ones?

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QUESTION: I SUFFER FROM INCONTINENCE AND WILL BE VISITING MY DAUGHTER FOR 3 WEEKS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON. I’M TERRIFIED I’LL HAVE AN ACCIDENT AT HER HOUSE. DO YOU HAVE ANY PRECAUTIONS I CAN TAKE TO AVOID LEAKS AND THE ACCOMPANYING EMBARRASSMENT?

Answer: This is a common concern and is a great topic to discuss around the holidays. There are many things you can do to avoid leaks, as well as a few things you can have at the ready in case a leak does happen at your loved one’s home.

As always, preparation is key and will help give you some peace of mind knowing that you have the proper products in place to prevent leaks. Be sure to bring plenty of supplies with you: absorbent products for day and night, extra changes of clothes (black is a great color choice since it goes with everything and hides leaks well), and extra medication, if you’re on it. After all, when traveling during the winter season, anything is possible, and delayed or canceled flights can leave you unprepared – pack extras so that you have enough to last you for a few extra days just in case. If you have trouble at night, bring your own waterproof pad (or two) to protect the bedding. Don’t forget about any other supplies you may need – skin protectants or cleansers, detergents for doing a load of laundry, disposable plastic bags to hold used or wet products, and an odor-neutralizing spray to hide any unwanted odors.

An extra bag can help you transport and hide your supplies, as well as serve as a place to store used products or clothes that you can dispose of when convenient for you. And if you’re a woman, upgrade your purse to a tote bag that can hold extra supplies you may need when you’re out and about.

Finally, the holidays can be a time of indulgence, so watch what you’re eating and drinking. Skip the coffee and alcohol, limit spicy foods and sweets, and avoid any foods that you know irritate your bladder.

Are you an expert in incontinence care? Would you like to join the NAFC expert panel? Have a question you’d like answered? Contact us!

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One Response

  1. I use large, shaped incontinence pads when on holiday and sleeping in hotel or at someone’s place. They are available at pharmacy or internet. They fit nicely into underwear and are not visible at all. Overnight ones hold so much there is even no point to start rumbling around the house to get to toilet at night

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