Bury health professionals highlight the taboo subject of continence

Reporter: Ask Bury
Date online: 13 September 2007

NHS staff in Bury are taking part in a national awareness week to highlight a taboo health problem.

National continence awareness week runs from 17 to 23 September, helping to highlight what people can do to help control bladder and bowel problems.

The awareness raising week – titled "Out of Control" – is looking at the impact continence problems can have on a person’s quality of life if left untreated.

During the week, physiotherapists from Fairfield General Hospital, which is run by Pennine Acute Trust, and staff from Bury Primary Care Trust, will be running stalls at local health clinics.

Nadine Towers, physiotherapist specialising in continence problems, said: "The awareness week will help to show people who have untreated continence problems how much more in control of their lives they could be if they seek help.

"Initial treatments usually involve simple measures, such as pelvic floor exercises, lifestyle changes, and techniques to retrain the bladder. There are also a variety of medicines and minor surgical procedures if other treatments are unsuccessful."

Sharron Dempsey, Bury continence advisor, said: "Continence problems can cause a lot of embarrassment for people so it’s not surprising that many people decide to manage by themselves. However, there are treatments and products available for people to help them.

"We will be visiting specific clinics during the week to target people who may be more at risk from problems, showing them the help that is on offer and that major surgery or drugs are not the only options."

A special leaflet has been designed for the week by organisers the Continence Foundation.

People from the Bury area can contact the continence service direct by calling: 01706 82 37 39 or by referral through their GP.