Incontinence and Bariatrics

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) a survey conducted in 2015-16, about 40 percent of adults in the United States were obese. When a person's body mass index (BMI) exceeds 30, she/he is considered obese and is called a bariatric patient.

In addition to items created for obese individuals, bariatric can also refer to items made especially for obese individuals to help them lose weight and maintain a healthy diet (and lifestyle). Bariatric items must be strong and durable yet comfortable enough for the patient to wear.

The need to stay comfortable and function normally are top priorities for bariatric products; however, they must also have sufficient strength and guaranteed absorbency. Most obese people have incontinence issues and require strong absorbent products that keep them dry.

What are bariatrics diapers?

A bariatrics diaper is a type of waterproof incontinence product designed for people who weigh more than 300 pounds and cannot use regular adult diapers. Their sizes can go up to 100 inches.

Bariatric-sized products are often taller and wider to provide more coverage. Their design also includes features that make them less likely to leak, such as thicker elastic waistbands for a snugger fit and extra strong tapes on the diaper sides to secure it better against your skin.

Who needs bariatrics diapers?

Anyone who is in a wheelchair or bedridden and, in fact, cannot use the restroom.

Some of the known illnesses that can lead to obesity and incontinence are:

• Diabetes
• Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
• Endometriosis
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Cushing’s disease
• Parkinson’s Disease.
• Osteoarthritis

Anyone who has a body mass index (BMI) that is equal to or greater than 30. The average size of the person may be 300 pounds or more, which means they would need bariatric diapers instead of using regular diapers every day.

Anyone who can’t fit in a regular-sized diaper. The fitted sizes will depend on waist measurement. Bariatric diapers can go up to 105 inches.

Why bariatric diapers are better options

Some patients may be hesitant to wear bariatric diapers because they are designed for larger individuals. This is understandable, but bariatric patients also have unique needs and require special considerations for their care. . Bariatric diapers are made explicitly with these customers in mind and offer more leak protection to keep you dryer longer.

Better sleep: Bariatric diapers are designed to protect against leakage, making it easier for people who need them to sleep through the night.

Improve comfort: These are designed to be more comfortable for the patient. It is essential that those who have a larger waistline or stomach area feel as if their skin can breathe and not feel restricted in any way.

Staying active: A person that wears a bariatric diaper does not have to be sedentary. They can go out, visit friends and family, attend restaurants or stores without the worry of embarrassment due to incontinence.

Less worry and anxiety: Bariatric-sized products might not offer the same level of discretion as regular adult diapers, but they don't need to because they provide better coverage against leaks in most cases.

The only downside is that many disposable bariatric products come at an extra cost due to their size and features. But this disadvantage does not outweigh the benefit of using bariatric diapers.

How to choose the right product

Choosing the right product to meet your needs is always a personal decision, but understanding the differences between bariatric and regular adult diapers can help you make an informed choice.

• Choose a product that meets your needs
• Consider product size and features
• Check the type of manufacturing materials
• Absorbency level and capacity
• Convenience and comfort

Final thoughts

In conclusion, either type can be helpful when dealing with bladder control issues. But if you're searching for something bigger and more absorbent, then bariatrics is what you need. If you’re considering bariatrics for weight loss, it is essential to research and speak with a qualified medical professional.