Toilet Adaptations

POTS symptoms like syncope, presyncope, fatigue, urinary urgency, and orthostatic intolerance (to name a few) can make toileting more challenging for individuals in the chronic illness community. For this reason, we wanted to ensure that there was a page dedicated to various toilet adaptations that can be considered.

Bedside Commode

  • Because POTS symptoms can vary in severity, there are times when having a bedside commode may be helpful. A bedside commode is a moveable "toilet" with handrails, a seat, and container underneath that can be emptied.

  • Sometimes it is difficult for the body to adjust to changing positions such as going from lying down, to sitting, standing and walking.

  • When symptoms such as lightheadedness, tachycardia, and presyncope are severe, it may be difficult to stand and walk safely to bathroom. There may also be times when the urgency to urinate or have a bowel movement is more than the time needed for the body to sufficiently adjust to changing positions.

  • A bedside commode has hand rails which allows for stability when transferring from the bed to the seat. As time allows, sit on the side of the bed before transferring.

  • If it is positioned close enough to the bed with the front edge of the seat next to the bed, an individual can hold on to the hand rails, stand, pivot, and sit on the commode.

  • It makes it easier to clean if a small amount of water is added to the commode container. Other items needed nearby when using a bedside commode include toilet paper, wipes, gloves, trash can, and hand sanitizer.

  • If another person is available, have them empty and clean the commode container. Otherwise, empty and clean when you are well hydrated and symptoms are better. A foldable bedside commode is easier to store when not needed.

Unisex Urinals

  • If symptoms are so severe that an individual cannot get out of bed, a unisex urinal or bedpan can be used. It is best to have a disposable mattress pad underneath.

  • Urinals can also be used in the car if there is no toilet available and you need to go to the bathroom.

  • Again, items needed nearby include toilet paper, wipes, gloves, trash can, and hand sanitizer.

  • If another person is available, have them empty and clean the container.

Urgency Toilet

  • This is an additional option that can be kept in the car for individuals who struggle with incontinence, frequent diarrhea, or other forms of urgency.

  • In the event that you are traveling and can’t make it to a bathroom, this is something that could be used in your vehicle when safely parked.

  • Again, items needed nearby include toilet paper, wipes, gloves, trash can, and hand sanitizer.

  • If another person is available, have them empty and clean the container, in addition to throwing away the inner disposable bag, once you are home or in an area where it is possible.

Written by: Jennifer Dochod, MS OTR/L, Advisor