Easily treatable medical conditions also may be responsible for urinary incontinence.

• Urinary Tract Infection (UTI):  Infectious agents can enter the urethra and bladder and start to multiply. The resulting infection irritates the bladder, causing strong urges to urinate. These urges may result in episodes of incontinence, which may be a warning sign of urinary tract infection. Other possible signs and symptoms of a UTI include a burning sensation when urinating as well as foul-smelling urine.

• Constipation:  The rectum is located near the bladder and shares many of the same nerves. Hard, compacted stool in the rectum causes these nerves to be overactive and trigger urine frequency.