When urinary or bowel incontinence develops, wearing diapers to work may become necessary. While this may be an inconvenience, there are a number of things people can do to help minimize discomfort and prevent embarrassment.
Proper Fit
Disposable adult diapers come in many different shapes and sizes. Ensuring a proper, snug fit will help minimize the bulky appearance of wearing diapers. Most brands closely resemble regular undergarments, and in many cases, are indistinguishable from cloth under wear. To further reduce the appearance of an adult diaper, people can wear an extra pair of underpants over the diaper, and women can wear pantyhose to help flatten out the absorbent material. Medical supply stores sometimes sell over garments which are worn over the diapers so that they cannot be detected underneath the clothing.
Odor Eliminators
Those who wear diapers to work may feel self-conscious about potential odors. There are a number of available products that can be used with adult diapers to help eliminate odors. These products do not simply mask the odor of urine and stool, but actually neutralize the offending odors. People can wear their diapers with confidence when they use a high-quality odor eliminator after every diaper change. Not only will the product help reduce odors while wearing the diaper, it will also help reduce smells when the individual is changing the diaper in a public restroom.
Doubling Up
While most adult diapers are highly absorbent, accidents can happen. Urine and stool can seep through the diaper and soil the clothing. For an added layer of protection and confidence, wearing two diapers can help reduce the fear of an accident and preserve clothing. Wearing two diapers may be especially helpful to those who suffer from medical conditions such as diabetes insipidus, which causes the production of large amounts of urine. People who take diuretics, or "water pills," may also enjoy the extra protection that doubling up on diapers provides. These medications cause excessive urination and often lead to a worsening in urinary incontinence.
Consulting With The Physician
While incontinence may be unavoidable in certain instances, there may be some medical interventions that the physician can offer to the patient. For example, there are prescription medications that can help minimize urinary frequency and urgency. While typically prescribed for overactive bladder or bladder spasms, these medications can help cut down on incontinent episodes. Avoiding caffeinated beverages and limiting the intake of fluids may also help reduce incontinent episodes at work.
