Increased production of urine
Increased urine production is associated with
diabetes mellitus, hypercalcaemia, congestive
heart failure (CHF), and peripheral venous
congestion. Certain drugs can also achieve this
effect as discussed later. Even though there is
no pathology in the urinary tract, these patients
may be overwhelmed by the increased number
of visits to the toilet leading to incontinence.
Drugs
Drugs are a major cause of incontinence in the
elderly and can produce incontinence through any
of the mechanisms mentioned above.
Anticholinergics, antipsychotics, opioids,
antidepressants, and calcium channel blockers can
cause urinary retention and overflow incontinence.
Diuretics and alcohol can cause polyuria.
Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors induce
cough and stress incontinence. Many of these
drugs can also cause sedation and/or delirium
leading to functional incontinence.