Keeping Fit and Healthy

Coping With the Urination Problems Caused by an Enlarged Prostate

15 August 2017 by Mildred Dixon

Benign prostate enlargement, or benign prostatic hyperplasia as it's sometimes more formally known, is a condition many men around the world live with. As the word 'benign' in its name suggests, this problem isn't serious or life-threatening, but it can be pretty unpleasant.

The symptoms of an enlarged prostate centre around its effects on the urinary system, so people find they have impaired control and frequent night-time urination, inability to urinate, or a combination of both sides of the coin.

If you make a few changes and get into the right habits, you can minimise the impact of an enlarged prostate so you can enjoy life and not feel anxious about needing the toilet.

Plan your hydration

Although you can't stop the increased need to find a toilet, you can try to control when it happens by drinking at the right times. To limit the times you wake up in the night, try avoiding drinking anything for at least a couple of hours before bed. Similarly, if you're going for a long drive or if you'll be stuck in meetings for long periods, limit drinking beforehand.

The important thing is to plan well so you don't end up dehydrated. If you're going to stop drinking at 8 pm, for example, make sure you've had plenty during the day.

Plan your toilet trips

When you can go to the toilet, it's best to take the opportunity so you don't get caught out later. This is especially applicable during the evenings. Some people find going twice in a row is a useful technique, as the second attempt helps to keep the bladder empty.

Reduce alcohol and caffeine

Both of these substances are diuretics, which means they make you produce more urine; obviously, this is not a good thing if you have bladder control problems. In addition, alcohol and caffeine can cause the urinary tract to feel irritated, which increases your need to pee. Cutting down can really help you get control, and avoiding alcohol late in the evening is a good idea.

Consider surgery

Whether you're put off the idea of surgery or you've been told in the past you weren't a suitable candidate, it's worth seeing a doctor for an up-to-date opinion on the matter. Advances like laser prostate surgery make prostate treatments more accessible and effective and less stressful than before, so consider finding out more. Having a surgical procedure could totally transform your life and help you feel more normal again.

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