Urinary incontinence can lead to several problems related to the urinary system, such as irritation, pain, and urinary tract infections. Catheters are essential for individuals suffering from urinary incontinence. They are helpful medical devices to empty your bladder healthily and quickly.
You should know your catheter options before picking one for your condition. All types of catheters offer unique benefits for different people. Many people need to consider catheter drainage eyelets when considering different types of catheters. It is a critical feature that affects your overall experience with catheters.
We will go over some of the features of catheter eyelets and how they affect the function and benefits of catheters. This guide will give you all the information you need to understand catheters better. As such, you and your physician can make the right choice regarding your purchase.
What Are Catheter Drainage Eyelets?
Before moving on, let’s discuss what catheter drainage eyelets are. Catheter drainage eyelets, also known as catheter eyes and drain holes, are present at or around the insertion tips of all types of catheters.
Positioning the catheter eyelets allows urine to enter the catheter tube’s passage. So when your catheter enters the stoma or urethra into your bladder, your urine drains right into the tube.
Generally, catheters have two drainage eyelets, while others may have more. Not to mention, some catheter brands are also manufacturing catheters with only one catheter drainage eyelet.
Types Of Catheter Drainage Eyelets
Catheter drain holes have a significant impact on the comfort level. They can make your catheterization experience incredibly smooth, or you may feel pain when using a catheter. The comfort level provided by catheter drainage eyelets comes down to their creation during manufacturing.
Punched Catheter Drainage Eyelets
One method of creating catheter drainage eyes involves punching a hole in the catheter. Also known as cold-punching, this process makes the catheters usable for their intended function. While they will do the job, punched catheter eyelets tend to be rougher. Since the edges are rough, you may experience discomfort or pain caused by friction as you insert or withdraw your catheter.
Polished Catheter Drainage Eyelets
Polished eyelets are the most popular type of catheter drain holes today. They minimize pain and ensure patient comfort during catheter insertion and removal. They also help minimize trauma, while polished catheter drain holes reduce the risk of infection. After all, polishing the holes smoothens out the rough edges.
Cather Drain Holes- Size And Shape
The size and shape of catheter eyelets vary from brand to brand.
Simply put, larger catheter drain holes allow more urine to drain. Plus, the urine drains into the catheter tube much faster. Similarly, two drainage holes provide a better and faster flow than one catheter drainage eyelet.
On the other hand, fewer and smaller catheter eyes cause less urine to flow through the catheter and at a much slower rate. That said, the catheter brand also affects the flow of urine from the bladder to a great degree. For example, some brands create narrow interior passages that can account for slow urine drainage.
Besides size, the shape of the catheter eyelets also affects a catheter’s efficiency. It primarily affects how comfortable one feels with the catheter inserted. The shape of a catheter drainage eyelet affects your urethra’s tissue. Wide drain holes allow more tissues to dip into the eyelets, causing irritation and discomfort.
Bottom Line- A Catheter That Works for You
A wide range of catheter supplies is available on the market, making the purchase an overwhelming task for buyers. When picking a catheter, you must consider several things, such as the type, materials, insertion tip, etc.
However, many people don’t consider catheter drainage eyelets. They are a critical feature that affects the comfort level, impacting your overall experience with catheterization. Two types of catheter drainage eyelets exist- punched and polished drain holes.
Punched drainage eyelets are rough and may cause friction, leading to pain and discomfort. On the other hand, polished catheters ensure smoother catheter insertion and removal. Consider the size and shape of catheter drainage holes.
It is best to consult a medical professional before purchasing a catheter. You can check out Active Life Medical Products to make a more informed decision for health.
How Active Life Medical Products Can Help With Catheter Supplies
You need a trusted catheter supplier when you require catheter supplies. Active Life Medical Products makes ordering the entire catheter supply process easy. Our Product Specialists can help you get your prescribed catheter covered through most insurances. Everything will be delivered directly to your front door.
Call Active Life Medical Products at (800) 319-2336 to place your order.
