Is urinary incontinence serious?

Urinary incontinence itself is not usually serious, but it is usually a symptom of another underlying condition, which can be serious. Normally, the cause may be a less serious issue, such as a urinary tract infection or prostate problems. In rare cases, it can be a symptom of prostate cancer, bladder cancer, or neurological diseases such as Parkinson's.

In generally functioning people, urinary incontinence is not medically dangerous, but it can be socially very embarrassing. In poorly functioning people, including the bed-ridden, demented, or otherwise incapacitated, urinary incontinence can cause skin breakdown and repel caregivers. So overall, yes, urinary incontinence can be serious, its seriousness rising with its severity and depending upon the specific circumstances.