What type of incontinence is characterized by a sudden, strong urge to urinate?

The type of incontinence characterized by a sudden, strong urge to urinate is urge incontinence. This condition occurs when the bladder's detrusor muscle involuntarily contracts, leading to a compelling need to urinate, which can result in involuntary leakage of urine if the person does not reach the toilet in time. It often arises due to neurological conditions, bladder irritants, or age-related changes in bladder function.

Urge incontinence is different from other types of incontinence, such as stress incontinence, which is associated with activities that increase abdominal pressure (like coughing or sneezing), functional incontinence, where physical or cognitive impairments prevent timely access to the toilet, and overflow incontinence, which involves the bladder becoming overdistended and leaking due to an inability to empty completely. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the unique features of urge incontinence and its underlying causes.