If you were to ask someone what a catheter is, they would most likely identify it as the tube that goes up your urethra to help with the removal of urine. The reason this device is so well-known is due to how unpleasant it sounds. Most people would do whatever they can to avoid ever using a catheter.
However, in practice, it’s not as bad as it sounds. In fact, there are some conditions where a catheter might even be the preferable option for some people. If you’re unsure which conditions might cause you to need a catheter, we’re here today to list them for you. That way, you can realize that catheters aren’t as bad as they’re made out to be.
Urinary Incontinence/Retention
Most of the time, the people that use catheters are the ones who have trouble controlling their urine. In most cases, this comes in the form of urinary incontinence. This is when people have trouble holding back their urine or deal with occasional leaking. Indwelling catheters help with this by letting people relieve themselves when needed, allowing their urine to collect in a leg bag to dispose of later.
On the other hand, we have urinary retention, which is when people have trouble emptying their bladder. This problem isn’t as common but equally important to remedy with the use of a catheter. Intermittent catheters are best to use here since their insertion will help open up the bladder to let the urine out. Just make sure you know the difference between straight tip and coudé tip catheters before buying any.
Nervous System Disabilities
The upside to urinary incontinence and retention is that neither of them are necessarily permanent conditions, which means catheters won’t have to become the new norm for users. However, this usually isn’t the case when urinary problems occur due to nervous system disabilities.
Conditions such as multiple sclerosis and spinal cord injuries can lead to a loss of control over your bladder. If that happens, there’s not much you can do to regain that control. Indwelling catheters will become a necessary piece of equipment that you’ll need to use to relieve yourself properly.
Mobility Conditions
Sometimes, people who need catheters still have complete control of their bladder. The problem for them is the ability to make it to the bathroom. That means people with mobility conditions will likely need to use a catheter.
Whether you’re bedridden from another health condition or no longer have the ability to walk, an indwelling catheter could be a helpful device that’ll save you from needing to get up to go to the bathroom. Obviously, catheters only assist with urination, but they will still significantly reduce the number of bathroom trips you must make.
