Summer: a time of sun, surf, and sweat. While the season brings rest and relaxation, it also brings unique challenges for those with urinary incontinence (UI). Here, we’ll talk about what barriers prevent UI patients from enjoying summer to its fullest, as well as how to care for UI patients during the warmer months.  

Summertime Struggles for People with UI 

Sweat 

Sweat cools the body when surroundings become too hot. In the groin, the bacteria in sweat creates compounds that contribute to bacterial vaginosis (BV), vaginal yeast infections, and urinary tract infections (UTI)¹. Urine leakage also acts as a transport system for these compounds, leaving UI patients particularly vulnerable to infection².  

Dehydration 

Some UI patients restrict water or resist eating water-rich foods to control bladder leaks and avoid potential embarrassment³. This behaviour may lead to dehydration, especially on very hot days. Dehydration causes urine to concentrate on the bladder, which increases the urge to urinate and contributes to the development of kidney stones⁴. UI patients are 95% more likely to develop an upper urinary kidney stone in their lifetime, which makes dehydration a major concern⁵.  

Dietary Changes 

Summer is a time for travel and relaxation. Whether at home or on the road, individuals with UI may indulge in exotic foods, such as spicy entrées and cold, creamy desserts. Unfortunately, this cuisine may be too spicy (or too sweet) for the bladder to handle: spicy foods irritate the bladder, while sugar and sweeteners have a stimulant effect on bladder muscles⁶.  

Beating the Heat with Summer Care for UI

Everyday Solutions 

Small changes can drastically improve UI patients’ quality of life during the summer. As a caregiver, make sure your patient: 

• Wears breathable clothing. Breathable clothing reduces sweating and the accumulation of sweat, especially in the groin. Natural breathable fibres, like cotton, are also easy to wash, dry, and fold: they make the perfect change of clothes, in case of accidents happen.   

• Takes frequent bathroom breaks. Increased water intake can make UI patients prone to leaks, and higher temperatures necessitate more frequent incontinence pad changes. Make sure your patient goes to the bathroom at least once an hour, and make sure the area around their incontinence pad is clean and dry.    

• Sticks to a bladder-friendly diet. When caring for a UI patient, fibre- and water-rich foods are your friend. Despite the dietary changes that summer may bring, make sure your patient chooses foods that minimize bladder irritation.

iD Care/s for You and Your Patients 

Our iD Care range features a number of personal hygiene items that clean, dry, and moisturize. Here are some tips on using iD Care to make your patients enjoy summer although hot temperatures. 

• Use cleansing foam or cleansing milk at home. iD Care uses a water-free, hypoallergenic formula that keeps skin soft and smelling fresh. 

• Carry iD Care’s cleansing wet wipes when travelling. These dermatologist-tested wipes come in a re-sealable package. They are perfect for cleaning on-the-go. 

• Use iD Care’s zinc oxide ointment after cleaning to prevent irritation, especially if your patient is sweaty. Zinc oxide creates a barrier against harmful bacteria, while a mix of glycerin and panthenol calm irritations. 

Caring for someone with UI can be especially challenging in the summer. With iD Care, you can set your worries aside and make time for fun in the sun. 

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¹ J. Eske, D. Weatherspoon. “What Causes Sweating Around the Vagina?” Medical News Today, 16 Nov. 2018. Source: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323719.php 

² B. Flaherty. “How to Handle Crotch Sweat.” Iconic, 23 Aug. 2018. Source: https://www.iconundies.com/blogs/body-banter/sweaty-vagina-how-handle-crotch-sweat

³ The Continence Foundation of Australia. “Understanding the psychological impact of incontinence.” Source: https://www.continence.org.au/pages/understanding-the-psychological-impact-of-incontinence.html

⁴ “The Importance of Hydration.” Bladder and Bowel, n.d. Source: https://www.bladderandbowel.org/news/importance-of-hydration/

⁵ H-J. Chung, A T-L. Lin, C-C. Lin, T-J. Chen, K-K. Chen. “Patients with Urinary Incontinence Appear More Likely to Develop Upper Urinary Tract Stones: A Nationwide, Population-Based Study with 8-Year Follow-Up.” PLOSOne, 18 Aug. 2016. Source: https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0161223

⁶ “Eating Your Way to a Healthier Bowel.” Bladder and Bowel, n.d. Source: https://www.bladderandbowel.org/news/eating-way-healthier-bladder-bowel/