A Hidden Reason for Male Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms
Whether due to age, genetics, or any other cause, lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) can affect nearly everyone, men and women alike. It may affect your desire to participate in social functions or fear of certain activities due to the fear of embarrassment and also lead to increased spending on pads to hide any accidents.
For men, one of the most common causes of LUTS presents many of the same symptoms as other urinary issues. Benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH, is a condition many men face with general aging, increasing their likelihood of having the associated symptoms. In a recent study, an estimated 70% of men in the U.S. between 60 and 69 years of age have some degree of BPH
BPH is a benign enlargement of the prostate gland that can cause many urinary symptoms to appear. Since the prostate gland is donut-shaped and wrapped around the urethra below the bladder, this swelling of the gland causes pressure on the urethra. Most frequently, this causes some urine to remain in the bladder and causes frequent but incomplete urination.
BPH on its own is benign and can be generally managed, without serious intervention. However, if left on its own, the swelling can progress to a point of causing other issues in the urinary tract. Some issues, include recurring infections, bladder stones, and even kidney dysfunction.
As these sometimes occur from other causes, it takes a knowledgeable and skilled urologist to ensure BPH is not contributing to these symptoms. If not, you may end up just treating the symptoms and not the cause, a left battling recurring pain and health issues.
Dr. Shrid will discuss potential lifestyle changes with you that may help control the swelling and BPH. However, some medications can also provide relief, if these conservative options prove to be unsuccessful.
If you are suffering from male urinary incontinence and want to hear more about management or treatment options, call Dr. Shrid in Chattanooga, TN at 423-778-4636 or visit www.drshrid.com to schedule a consultation today.
