Gotta go a lot? You’re not alone. More than half of men will experience an enlarged prostate starting at around age 50, says urologist Troy Sukkarieh, MD. While the condition, known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is usually not serious, it can cause some annoying symptoms, including frequent urination, especially at night, and the urge to go without any warning. If this sounds like you, here are some tips to help:
- Cut back on fluids at night, especially caffeine and alcohol, which stimulate the bladder and kidneys, leading to nighttime urination.
- Take your time in the bathroom. Emptying your bladder completely will reduce the need to return in the middle of the night.
- Talk to your doctor. Some medications contribute to the problem. Your doctor may be able to adjust dosages, change your schedule or prescribe different medications.
- Get screened. Regular screenings can identify if you have an enlarged prostate. Your physician may also prescribe medications that can relax muscles, making it easier to urinate, or even ones that can shrink the prostate.
Healthy lifestyle habits, such as following a heart-healthy, low animal-fat, low-carb diet, have also been shown to reduce your risk of developing an enlarged prostate. If you’re doing those already keep up the good work!
HEALTHY MEN EVENT ON JUNE 23
CentraState is offering a prostate and colorectal cancer screening for men ages 40 and up on June 23. Register online or call us at 732-308-0570.
