Getting support

Talk about it

Although bladder problems are very common, it’s easy to feel you’re all alone with them, simply because they’re not something people tend to talk about.

But if you can bring yourself to talk over your worries with your partner or someone else close to you, you may find it makes a big difference to your feelings of isolation – and may even eventually lead you to overcome the problem.

Before broaching the subject of your bladder problems, have a look at some handy hints on raising difficult issues with your partner.

Choosing the moment

• Choose the right time and place to discuss this subject where you can be sure of having privacy – perhaps when you’re going for a walk together.
• Bear in mind that your bladder problems will seem much more serious to you than to your partner – who may simply take it in his or her stride and come up with some practical ideas. You may even find that your partner has been worrying about why you’ve been so anxious recently and is relieved to find out that it’s not due to a problem with your relationship.
• Discuss it face to face, not on the phone, so you can see how your partner is responding to your news.
• Remind yourself that you have a common health problem and as such you shouldn’t feel embarrassed about it. Tell yourself you can feel comfortable discussing it with people close to you.

Relax

Finding ways to relax and stay positive can make a big difference to how you cope with your condition. See some ideas you might want to try in our six steps to stress-busting.

1. Treat your body with respect by making a special effort to eat properly and get enough sleep. Doing some exercise can also make you feel better about yourself and give you a more positive outlook on life.
2. Try to cut back on stimulants like alcohol, caffeine and tobacco. These may provide short-term pleasure, but in the longer term they will make you feel even worse.
3. Experiment with relaxation techniques. Many people find meditation and visualisation techniques extremely relaxing, and puts them in a positive frame of mind. For more information on meditation visit www.metta.org.uk/meditate
4. A good way to start is to buy a relaxation tape or CD. These are widely available from book or music shops. To a background of relaxing, unobtrusive music, you will be encouraged to relax your body slowly, and then focus on relaxing and positive thoughts.
5. Indulge yourself now and then. Go for a massage or a pedicure. Being pampered by someone else can help you relax, release stored up tension and make you feel better about your life.
6. If you’re feeling anxious and you can’t shake off the anxiety, or if you think you might be suffering from depression, speak to your doctor who may be able to suggest solutions.

Sleep well

Getting a good night’s sleep can do wonders for your feeling of wellbeing. This can, however, be easier said than done, especially if you’re having to get up in the night to go to the loo. But it’s worth tackling the problem, not least because if you can’t sleep properly, your bladder symptoms may seem a lot harder to put up with.

If you're struggling to drop off to sleep, or find that you're waking up in the middle of the night, try our tips for a good night’s kip.

• Stay away from stimulants such as caffeine (including chocolate), alcohol and tobacco in the evening. These will stimulate your nervous system and make it hard for you to drop off.
• Check your non-prescription medicines as these may contain caffeine or another substance called pseudoephedrine, which will keep you awake.
• Get some exercise to ease stress and help you relax, so you don't lie there worrying about things when you should be asleep.
• Relaxation and breathing techniques can be beneficial, helping you to let go of anxieties that may prevent you from falling asleep.
• If you still can't get to sleep, it may be worth talking to your doctor or practice nurse, as it could be a sign of another medical problem.

Practical help

Sometimes a helping hand is all you need to get you off on the right track to overcoming your bladder condition. A good place to start may be with the NHS and Social Services – these can provide a number of services to make your life a little easier.

For example, it may be possible to arrange home visits from a physiotherapist or other healthcare professional.

If you need equipment, such as a wheelchair or walking frame, the occupational therapy department of your local Social Services office can sometimes lend items out and help you to adapt your home.

Ask at your GP surgery to find how you can get referred to Social Services providers in your area.

Support groups & charities

The Bladder and Bowel Foundation is an organisation that provides valuable help, information and support to people experiencing bladder problems. It’s also a useful source of information for those caring for others with such conditions, or for friends and relatives. 

Contacting the Bladder and Bowel Foundation may help you to understand and manage your condition better. If you phone the helpline or send an email, the organisation can also tell you how to get in touch with your local NHS continence specialist service.

The Bladder and Bowel Foundation

Website: www.bladderandbowelfoundation.org
Nurse helpline telephone: 0845 345 0165 – Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm  
Email: info@bladderandbowelfoundation.org

The Cystitis & Overactive Bladder Foundation

Advice Line: 0121 702 0820
Address: Kings Court, 17 School Road, Hall Green, Birmingham B28 8JG
Website: www.cobfoundation.org
Registered Charity No. 1047714

Please note contact details are for information only and are correct at time of this website going live. Pfizer is not responsible for the content of external websites.