Emtional Effects

Disorders of the urinary tract, prostate or kidneys can take an emotional toll. For most people, the ability to control urination represents a very early milestone in maturity. Disorders involving obstruction of the urinary tract may lead to pain and difficulty controlling urination or incontinence. The medical evaluation of the urinary tract may also appear to represent loss of control, since it typically involves disrobing and may involve providing urine samples at a time when this is uncomfortable. Disorders involving acute or chronic kidney failure can involve a profound loss of control if dialysis is needed to help take over part of the vital function of the kidney.

There are ways to understand and cope with the distress, irritation, anger and depression that may accompany a sense of loss of control. The first step is to understand that reactions like these are natural, and that help is available. Speak with your physician and ask for support (from a specialist in this area or a patient support group) or counseling if you would like extra help to give you the determination and strength to see your treatment through and fully benefit from it.