Losing bowel or bladder control can be a sign there is something wrong such as an infection, a prolapsed uterus, or enlarged prostate gland. These should be ruled out or treated by a physician. There are medications that can help regain control as well as using many different forms of diapers or incontinence supplies. Additionally, some of these tips can help reduce the possibility of accidents:

• Schedule frequent visits to the bathroom, whether or not there is an urge to go. These can be every hour while awake, and slowly you can begin to lengthen the time between visits. Go first thing on waking up and last thing before going to bed.

• Have a clear path to the bathroom.

• Consider having a bedside commode in the bedroom if the bathroom is far away or it takes a long time to get out of the bed.

• Use Kegel exercises to improve muscle tone. To learn to do this, practice starting and stopping the flow of urine while urinating. Then without urinating, practice squeezing those muscles about 25 times in a row. Do this a few times a day. No one will know.

• Eliminate or reduce intake of caffeine, sodas, tea, and alcohol. These can irritate the bladder.

• Stop drinking liquids three hours before going to bed, but be sure to drink adequate amounts during the day.

• Take diuretics early in the morning so they'll stop causing frequent urination by mid-to late afternoon.

• Try to establish a normal bowel habit at the same time every day and sit long enough to empty the bowel. Don't allow interruptions.

• Use the bathroom before leaving home and find out where toilets are available when you arrive at your destination.

• Use diapers or incontinence pads when going out and have some wet wipes and a change of clothes with you.