# My Dementia Update: Number ? Incontinence **URL:** \ **Category:** Miscellaneous and Personal Stuff I Must Share\ **Created:** [December 14, 2011, 10:41pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-dementia-update-number-incontinence/606241 "2011-12-14T22:41:11Z")\ **Posts on this page:** 20\ **Page:** 1
**Author:** ![Quasimodem](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/q/e274bd/32.png) [@Quasimodem](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Quasimodem)\ **Post date:** [December 14, 2011, 10:41pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-dementia-update-number-incontinence/606241/1 "2011-12-14T22:41:11Z")
As much as it pains me to say it to you here, after about a month of barely making it to the bathroom, I have now begun to dribble. Is my brain “getting the message” too late? This may be the case, according to my research. It could also be due to my neck problem which has now developed a numb spot in the back of my head. This, as my doctor told me, is one of the attendant effects of the disc problem which they’ve wanted to fix for a couple of months now, but which I have had to delay, due to Dondra’s health and _her_ inablity to have the same surgery because of her pulmonary hypertension and arrythmias. She’s not a good surgery candidate because of this. Anyone know if they make Depends in the Speedoo style? 😃 Thanks Q ---
**Author:** ![malkavia](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/malkavia/32/5621_2.png) [@malkavia](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/malkavia)\ **Post date:** [December 14, 2011, 10:46pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-dementia-update-number-incontinence/606241/2 "2011-12-14T22:46:39Z")
I don’t have much to add to this, but I just wanted to tell you what a gift you are on the boards. Your humor and openness about the goings-on of your condition are refreshing and appreciated. Thank you for continuing to share with us. P.S. If you can’t find the speedo version of Depends, you might be able to get away with a maxie pad. Just an idea! ---
**Author:** ![Tamex](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/t/ccd318/32.png) [@Tamex](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Tamex)\ **Post date:** [December 14, 2011, 11:05pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-dementia-update-number-incontinence/606241/3 "2011-12-14T23:05:16Z")
A strange thing about Depends, if anyone out there happens to need them: I saw packs and packs of Depends and generic Depends, all unopened, at the thrift store yesterday. Sorry, I did not pay close attention to the price. I guess that in death people leave all sorts of stuff behind that they don’t need anymore :(. No Speedo styles there, I’m afraid :). ---
**Author:** ![Yllaria](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/yllaria/32/3452_2.png) [@Yllaria](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Yllaria)\ **Post date:** [December 14, 2011, 11:31pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-dementia-update-number-incontinence/606241/4 "2011-12-14T23:31:01Z")
You have my sympathy, Quasi. I had (or have) a similar problem that turned out to have a simple fix. Apparently I react differently to caffiene as I get older. It’s not a diuretic effect. The volume doesn’t change. But my ability to hold it goes all to hell if I, say, drink a regular coke. It was a commercial for an overactive bladder medication that gave me the hint to check it out. "If you’ve already tried cutting out caffiene and you still . . . " So (1) if you still have caffiene in your life, you might want to try cutting it out, just to check. If that’s not it, (2) you could check with your doctor to see if the overactive bladder meds would work. Another phrase used for the same thing is urinary urgency. The Google also mentions that a urinary infection (3) can cause the same effect. So that’s three things that you might have already checked. You did say you’d researched it, but I figure it’s better to be redundant than to leave things untried. Now you’ve got me wondering if there would be a market for Speedo depends? ---
**Author:** ![Quasimodem](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/q/e274bd/32.png) [@Quasimodem](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Quasimodem)\ **Post date:** [December 14, 2011, 11:41pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-dementia-update-number-incontinence/606241/5 "2011-12-14T23:41:17Z")
Ah! Apparently, I misspelled **“Speedo”** , upthread. Well, just call me “The Incompetent Incontinent” as well as “The Impotent Potentate”, then! 🙂 [![](https://img.youtube.com/vi/p9uZvrsAoyE/maxresdefault.jpg "The Cadillacs - Speedoo (1955)") ](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p9uZvrsAoyE) Thanks Q ---
**Author:** ![Quasimodem](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/q/e274bd/32.png) [@Quasimodem](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Quasimodem)\ **Post date:** [December 15, 2011, 1:09am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-dementia-update-number-incontinence/606241/6 "2011-12-15T01:09:07Z")
**Ylaria** , I cut way down on the Coke Zero and have started drinking Gerolsteiner water because of its natural carbonation. I also use a product called “Crazy, Mixed Up Salt” instead of table salt. It has way less sodium. If you (or any of you) have other suggestions, I’d be glad to have them! Thanks Quasi ---
**Author:** ![lavenderviolet](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/l/cdc98d/32.png) [@lavenderviolet](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/lavenderviolet)\ **Post date:** [December 15, 2011, 1:38am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-dementia-update-number-incontinence/606241/7 "2011-12-15T01:38:15Z")
You could try setting a timer to remind you to go to the bathroom on a regular schedule every couple hours. If you feel like the problem is that you don’t realize you have to go until it’s too late, that could help. ---
**Author:** ![Cub\_Mistress](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/c/ea666f/32.png) [@Cub\_Mistress](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Cub_Mistress)\ **Post date:** [December 15, 2011, 1:54am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-dementia-update-number-incontinence/606241/8 "2011-12-15T01:54:00Z")
Timed voiding can help. Yop head to the bathroom every hour, then every 1 1/2 hours.[Kegel (seems to be safe for work upon cursory inspection -you might want to wait to be at home)](http://www.askmen.com/dating/love_tip_60/67_love_tip.html) exercises can help men, too. Also don’t “ask” yourself if you need to pee by giving a little push with your bladder muscles. Just go, if you haven’t gone in the last hour, or even if you have. Empty your bladder before getting in the car no matter what, and any other time you might not have access to a bathroom for an hour or more. Cub Mistress, RN ---
**Author:** ![MoodIndigo1](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/m/e8c25b/32.png) [@MoodIndigo1](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/MoodIndigo1)\ **Post date:** [December 15, 2011, 1:58am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-dementia-update-number-incontinence/606241/9 "2011-12-15T01:58:32Z")
Quasi, there is a version of Depends that is made to wear under tight-fitting clothing: [http://www.depend.com/mens-solutions/products/depend-guards-for-men/10544#productdetail](http://www.depend.com/mens-solutions/products/depend-guards-for-men/10544#productdetail) Though Maxipads might appear to be the same, and cheaper, they won’t absorb as quickly or as much. BTW, I read about this on a forum for race car drivers who might need to “go” while they’re driving. Are you sure this is dementia-related? Shouldn’t you check with your doctor before assuming this? Maybe this condition can be treated. Good luck, Quasi. \ ---
**Author:** ![Al\_Bundy](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/a/e79b87/32.png) [@Al\_Bundy](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Al_Bundy)\ **Post date:** [December 15, 2011, 2:20am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-dementia-update-number-incontinence/606241/10 "2011-12-15T02:20:42Z")
You can spend lots of money on doctors for nothing and you can buy depends or even wear a catheter. But it’s worth testing this little known, but sometimes working remedy. Cayenne pepper has been known to stop urge incontinence. I have prostate trouble and this worked instantly for me within a day. Everybody is different. Try a half teaspoon in a small amount of water and down it quick before washing it down with food or other drink. That’s the way I take it anyway. ---
**Author:** ![StGermain](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/stgermain/32/2868_2.png) [@StGermain](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/StGermain)\ **Post date:** [December 15, 2011, 2:21am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-dementia-update-number-incontinence/606241/11 "2011-12-15T02:21:45Z")
Could it be prostate related? I understand that happens to most men of a certain age. StG ---
**Author:** ![Quasimodem](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/q/e274bd/32.png) [@Quasimodem](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Quasimodem)\ **Post date:** [December 15, 2011, 2:37am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-dementia-update-number-incontinence/606241/12 "2011-12-15T02:37:25Z")
I’ll try the timer thing, and I take Terasozin for my prostate. Last trip to my doc he did a PSA (PAS?), to check it out, and I’ll hear in a few days how that went. I’ll give the Cayenne a shot (!;)) when I find out that the test indicates there’s a problem, thanks, **Al** and **St. Germain**. I thought you guys were kidding about the maxi pads, but I’ll sure check into the Depends for tight fits, **Mood**. Sure didn’t know that about race car drivers! 🙂 Catheter? I hope to God that’s after I go batshit _all_ the way, and don’t know I’ve got one in me, because although I try to look at this whole thing with a light heart and a smile, I have my limits, and a cath isn’t in the plan. Thanks, Guys and Ladies Quasi ---
**Author:** ![Senegoid](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/senegoid/32/6606_2.png) [@Senegoid](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Senegoid)\ **Post date:** [December 15, 2011, 2:49am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-dementia-update-number-incontinence/606241/13 "2011-12-15T02:49:46Z")
> [@Quasimodem](#): > > I’ll try the timer thing, and I take Terasozin for my prostate. Last trip to my doc he did a PSA (PAS?), to check it out, and I’ll hear in a few days how that went. I’ll give the Cayenne a shot (!;)) when I find out that the test indicates there’s a problem, thanks, **Al** and **St. Germain**. How does Terazosin (a.k.a. Hytrin) work for you? I used it for a while, but it made me feel kinda groggy and floppy all over. Then doc switched me to another alpha blocker, Tamsulosin (a.k.a. Flowmax) which is somehow more prostate-specific, with somewhat better results. ---
**Author:** ![Quasimodem](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/q/e274bd/32.png) [@Quasimodem](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Quasimodem)\ **Post date:** [December 15, 2011, 3:21am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-dementia-update-number-incontinence/606241/14 "2011-12-15T03:21:34Z")
> [@Senegoid](#): > > How does Terazosin (a.k.a. Hytrin) work for you? I used it for a while, but it made me feel kinda groggy and floppy all over. Then doc switched me to another alpha blocker, Tamsulosin (a.k.a. Flowmax) which is somehow more prostate-specific, with somewhat better results. Well, now that you mention it, **Senegoid** , I have noticed a little less energy that usual, but really nothing more than that. I usually use the PSA test to see if it’s working or not, but I’ll check with my doc about Flonase. Thanks Q ---
**Author:** ![Clockwork\_Jackal](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/c/b5e925/32.png) [@Clockwork\_Jackal](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Clockwork_Jackal)\ **Post date:** [December 15, 2011, 3:23am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-dementia-update-number-incontinence/606241/15 "2011-12-15T03:23:25Z")
> [@malkavia](#): > > I don’t have much to add to this, but I just wanted to tell you what a gift you are on the boards. > > Your humor and openness about the goings-on of your condition are refreshing and appreciated. Thank you for continuing to share with us. Nothing else to except to echo this sentiment. 🙂 ---
**Author:** ![StGermain](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/stgermain/32/2868_2.png) [@StGermain](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/StGermain)\ **Post date:** [December 15, 2011, 9:54pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-dementia-update-number-incontinence/606241/16 "2011-12-15T21:54:24Z")
> [@Quasimodem](#): > > Well, now that you mention it, **Senegoid** , I have noticed a little less energy that usual, but really nothing more than that. I usually use the PSA test to see if it’s working or not, but I’ll check with my doc about Flonase. > > Thanks > > Q **Quasi** - Before you check with your doc, reread **Senegoid’s** post. The drug he mentioned was _ **Flowmax** _. If you ask your doc for Flonase, it may help your dripping nose, but not your other dripping. StG ---
**Author:** ![Quasimodem](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/q/e274bd/32.png) [@Quasimodem](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Quasimodem)\ **Post date:** [December 15, 2011, 10:20pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-dementia-update-number-incontinence/606241/17 "2011-12-15T22:20:00Z")
**HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!** :D:D:D:D:D I see that now, **St. G**! Thanks for catching it and for making my day with that laugh!!! Quasi ---
**Author:** ![Yllaria](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/yllaria/32/3452_2.png) [@Yllaria](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Yllaria)\ **Post date:** [December 15, 2011, 10:59pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-dementia-update-number-incontinence/606241/18 "2011-12-15T22:59:23Z")
> [@Quasimodem](#): > > . . . Catheter? I hope to God that’s after I go batshit _all_ the way, and don’t know I’ve got one in me, because although I try to look at this whole thing with a light heart and a smile, I have my limits, . . . Underlining mine. Quasi, because you’re a guy, you can use what they call a condom catheter. It goes outside rather than in. I wouldn’t look forward to either of them, but as a regular thing, the outside one causes less trouble. ---
**Author:** ![Quasimodem](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/q/e274bd/32.png) [@Quasimodem](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Quasimodem)\ **Post date:** [December 15, 2011, 11:49pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-dementia-update-number-incontinence/606241/19 "2011-12-15T23:49:07Z")
_Flowmax_ - sounds like something for people who _can’t_ pee. To me, anyway. _Propulsid_ - Sounds like it oughta be a laxative. (It’s for heartburn). Again, to me anyway. **Ylarria** , It isn’t that. It’s just knowing I can no longer control my urination, and then wondering how long it will be before I can’t control my bowels. Right now, it’s okay. I can still laugh about it with y’all. But sometime it may not be anymore. I let **D** look at this, and she had a very interesting response: “Bill”, she said. " I’ve noticed that recently instead of telling me (in a restaurant, usually. _q_) you need to go to the bathroom, you say, ‘I better go to the bathroom’". So maybe it _is_ my prostate. But anyway, everything is still a-ok except for that, and when it _isn’t_ okay anymore, well then… what was that saying we used in the 60’ and 70’s? “It’s been real and it’s been fun (_but lately_) it ain’t been real fun”. My **Dondra** doesn’t _look_ her 63 years. She looks, at best, early 50’s, and, even though she has health problems of her own, if I start to take that long slide, I will _not_ burden her with my sorry ass. But that’s a long way away, right? 🙂 So let’s have some fun and reach out to our Doper Family as long as we _all_ can! Love you guys Bill ---
**Author:** ![elfkin477](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/e/a9a28c/32.png) [@elfkin477](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/elfkin477)\ **Post date:** [December 16, 2011, 5:12am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-dementia-update-number-incontinence/606241/20 "2011-12-16T05:12:42Z")
> [@MoodIndigo1](#): > > Though Maxipads might appear to be the same, and cheaper, they won’t absorb as quickly or as much. True, but Poise pads are only about maxi pad size and designed for this problem; they’re marketed towards women, but [men use them too](http://community.poise.com/topic/Lbl-Products-Product/Men-Poise/800000152). I haven’t had to buy anyone Depends in a long time (not since my great-grandmother passsed on), but I imagine these pads are a lot cheaper considering how much less material is used to make them. [Next page](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/my-dementia-update-number-incontinence/606241.md?page=2)