• Drink plenty of fluid (six to eight glasses a day) – some people limit their fluid intake, thinking it will help their symptoms. However, this only makes urine more concentrated and can irritate the bladder
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol – caffeine can irritate the bladder, while alcohol is a diuretic and increases urination
• Eat a healthy diet – adequate fibre intake helps reduce the risk of constipation, while losing extra weight will benefit symptoms too. It’s also a good idea to avoid spicy and acidic foods, which may irritate the bladder
• Exercise appropriately – some high impact, strenuous forms of exercise, such as jogging and weight training, may increase the risk of urine leakage. Instead, customers should focus on stretching and strengthening core muscles (e.g. Pilates, yoga)
• Quit smoking – this helps avoid excessive coughing, which can put strain on the pelvic floor muscles.

Did you know?

Dehydration makes urine more concentrated and this can irritate the bladder. 

Signposting

For more information you can:

• Use your Counter Intelligence Plus training guide
• Take a look at NHS Choices – urinary incontinence
• Visit The Continence Foundation
• Look up TENA for pharmacy support.

When to refer

Refer to the pharmacist anyone who:

• Has symptoms for the first time
• Has symptoms that have changed or worsened
• Has pain or discomfort on urinating
• Has urine that is cloudy or has blood in it
• Has repeated episodes of urinary tract infections (e.g. cystitis)
• Is male and requests OTC tamsulosin for the first time
• Is taking prescribed medication.