Getting help with incontinence when you can’t see your GP or nurse

Contrary to popular belief, incontinence is not always an inevitable part of ageing and with the correct medical advice and support, and a high percentage of urinary incontinence conditions can be cured or dramatically improved. So we are of the opinion that seeking a medical appointment for any type of incontinence is essential, to rule out any symptoms of underlying illnesses or conditions.

Regular readers will know that one of the first things we always ask new customers when they telephone us to purchase incontinence products is – “have you had any advice from your GP or nurse?”

However – what we are hearing on an increasing basis is that it’s really tricky to secure that medical advice and support in a timely fashion. And that’s hardly surprising given that the NHS is still under incredible pressure and many customers are waiting for some time to get the appointments they need.

Here at Arelle we are very sympathetic to this – we know how upsetting incontinence can be.

So what can you do in the meantime as a temporary measure to improve your quality of life and save you from being housebound?

Firstly – there are some brilliant online support resources you can find for getting help with incontinence. The charity Bladder & Bowel UK is just one of the organisations which gives independent advice on bladder and bowel problems. As well as a really helpful website, there is a confidential helpline number you can call on 0161 214 4591. If you find it difficult discussing your condition, you can also drop them an enquiry via this weblink

Secondly – you can ask us about the incontinence products which can help you.

Whether it’s pants or pads, bedding or seating protection, or skincare and hygiene products, we have been advising on incontinence products for over 20 years and are confident we can help and support you at this difficult time. Here are some links to our products to give you an initial idea:

• washable pants – ideal for comfort and dignified protection
• disposable pants and pads which are held in place by close-fitting pants known as fixation or stretch pants
• bed or chair protectors in the form of disposable or washable pads
• skincare and hygiene products

If there is something you are looking for and cannot find it, do let us know. Call us on 0800 389 3597 or email us via the contact us page

A couple of tips from us:

1. Some of our female customers sometimes choose sanitary pads over incontinence pads because they are cheaper. However they rarely have the same technology and sanitary products can stay damp, making your skin sore – you can read more in this related blog. So although incontinence products might be more expensive, they will work much better and will be far more comfortable.
2. You may be able to get incontinence products on the NHS depending on your local clinical commissioning group. To qualify for NHS products you will need to be assessed by a healthcare professional (and meet the criteria set out by your local NHS) – so contact your local NHS continence service or clinic for a location in your area and check if you need to be referred by your doctor.
3. While you are waiting to see a healthcare professional, do keep a diary of your bladder habits. This is usually part of a medical assessment and may speed up your diagnosis. However it is also likely that your GP will also want to do a physical examination to assess your bladder, get a sample of your urine for testing, and sometimes a blood test to check the health of your kidneys and an ultrasound scan of your bladder.

We know these are challenging and sometimes frustrating times – but when it comes to getting help with incontinence, please don’t suffer in silence. Call us on 0800 389 3597.