Tips to promote continence after a stroke:

  • Drinking plenty of fluids through the day especially water, helps avoid
     infections of the bladder and constipation.
  • Try to have 6 - 8 glasses of clear fluid each day.
  • Cut down on drinks which contain caffeine like tea, coffee, cola, and alcoholic drinks. These have a diuretic effect and can irritate the bladder.
  • Avoid drinking any fluids 2 ½ - 3 hours before going to bed.
  • Adopt a routine to help avoid accidents.
  • Try to use the toilet as soon as you need to (unless you are on a bladder training programme) and empty your bladder fully.
  • Keep as active as you can! This will help stimulate the bowel to move regularly.
  • Cop a squat. Elevating feet or bending forwards so that hips are at a 35° angle helps open the bowel fully and makes elimination easier.
  • If you are using continence products make sure you are using them properly.  Check description on the packaging.
  • Make sure you are wearing the correct underwear with any continence products.
  • Wear clothes that are easy to unfasten like Velcro or elasticated waist bands.

For more information

Early Supported Stroke Discharge Team
Carlisle & Brampton
London Road Community Clinic
Hilltop Heights
London Road
Carlisle
CA1 2NS
Tel: 01228 602108

Penrith Hospital
Bridge Lane
Penrith
CA11 8HX
Tel: 01768 245639

West (Workington and Copeland)
Maryport Community Hospital
Ewanrigg Road
Maryport
CA15 8EJ
Tel: 01900 705736

 

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For further information on confidentiality contact the Information Governance Team:

Information.Governance@ncic.nhs.uk | 01228 603961

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