When Elaine often has a sudden urge to urinate and has to go frequently, she likely has which type of incontinence?

Urge incontinence is characterized by a sudden, intense urge to urinate, often leading to involuntary loss of urine. This condition is typically associated with an overactive bladder, where the bladder muscles contract unpredictably, creating a strong urge to urinate. Individuals with urge incontinence may find that they need to urinate frequently, sometimes even having difficulty reaching the bathroom in time.

Understanding the nature of urge incontinence is crucial for effective management and care. It often results from neurological disorders, infections, or irritation of the bladder. Prompt recognition of this type of incontinence allows for appropriate interventions, which may include bladder training exercises or medications to help manage the symptoms, thereby improving the quality of life for individuals affected by this condition.