70 and kicking: A seriously-ill woman's journey from despair to happiness

Hyderabad: A woman in her seventies from Secunderabad has reclaimed her ability to laugh, cough, and lift without the fear of discomfort and embarrassment after two long decades.

Dr. Sarika Pandya, the head of the Female Urology Department at the Asian Institute of Nephrology and Urology (AINU), has played a pivotal role in making this transformation possible.

For 20 years, this 72-year-old lady silently endured a condition that robbed her of the simple joy of laughter and made everyday activities like coughing, sneezing, or lifting objects a source of anxiety. Her life was significantly impacted as she grappled with urine leakage issues. It was Dr. Sarika Pandya who offered a glimmer of hope in the form of a corrective surgical procedure.

Diagnosed with "Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI)," the woman believed her condition was an inevitable part of aging until she sought the expertise of Dr. Sarika Pandya at AINU.

The chosen surgical procedure, a Stress Incontinence surgery called the Transobturator Tape (TOT) Procedure, marked a turning point in her life.

This minimally invasive technique involved the insertion of a synthetic mesh tape through small incisions, providing essential support to the urethra.

Acting like a hammock, the tape stabilized the urethra, preventing involuntary urine leakage, especially during activities known to trigger SUI, such as coughing, sneezing, or lifting heavy objects.

The TOT procedure is highly favored for its effectiveness, reduced surgical risks, and quicker recovery compared to traditional approaches. It has been a game-changer, significantly improving the quality of life for countless women suffering from SUI.

The success of the surgery liberated her from the burden of relying on diapers to manage her condition. She can now laugh freely, socialize without anxiety, and enjoy a newfound sense of freedom. The impact of this transformation extended even further within her family as her daughter, who had silently shared the same condition, sought treatment after witnessing her mother's remarkable journey.

Dr. Sarika Pandya, who led the surgical team, emphasized the importance of early intervention in cases of urinary leakage, a common concern among women.

Factors such as pregnancy, childbirth, or muscle weakness often contribute to SUI. Seeking help in the early stages can lead to non-surgical solutions, such as Kegel exercises and medication, thus averting prolonged suffering.

Dr. Pandya emphasized that an estimated 20-30% of women worldwide, and even some men, experience urinary leakage, making awareness and early consultation crucial for enhancing their quality of life.