Seven Bladder Problems In Men

Understanding Bladder Problems In Men

The male urinary system is a complex network of organs responsible for the production, storage, and elimination of urine. One of the key components of this system is the bladder, a hollow muscular organ located in the pelvis. The bladder plays a vital role in the urinary system by storing urine until it is ready to be released from the body through the urethra during urination.

Bladder problems in men can significantly affect their quality of life. Several common types of bladder problems can arise, each with its own set of symptoms and potential complications. Fortunately, we have some potential solutions to ease experiencing these problems.

When trying to understand bladder problems in men it is crucial to recognise the signs, seek advice from a GP, to manage the conditions effectively.

• Common signs and symptoms of bladder problems include:
• Frequent urination
• A sense of urgency to pass urine.
• Difficulty initiating or stopping urination.
• Weak urine flow
• Discomfort or pain during urination
• Blood in the urine.

Do not dismiss these symptoms as a normal part of ageing, as they can be a sign of an underlying bladder problem that require medical attention. Early recognition and action can help prevent complications, improve quality of life, and ensure bladder problems are managed properly. 

Male Incontinence

Involuntary urine leakage, known as overflow incontinence in men, is a prevalent condition. Two frequently encountered forms are stress incontinence and urgency incontinence. Urgency incontinence, also referred to as overactive bladder, is characterised by the uncontrolled contractions of the bladder muscles, resulting in the unintended release of urine.

This term is used due to the bladder's heightened activity and urgency, causing leakage. Both stress and urgency incontinence can significantly impact quality of life, appropriate diagnosis, and treatment to manage symptoms effectively. Understanding the distinct types of incontinence aids in identifying the underlying causes and implementing interventions for improved bladder control.

Stress Incontinence

Stress incontinence refers to the condition where the bladder experiences pressure from activities such as coughing, exercising, laughing, heavy lifting, or sneezing, resulting in the unintended release of small amounts of urine. While less common in men, it can occur because of previous prostate surgery performed to address conditions like prostate cancer or benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Recognising the potential connection between stress incontinence and prior prostate surgery is essential in understanding the underlying causes and implementing appropriate management strategies to alleviate symptoms and improve bladder control. Prompt medical attention can enhance the quality of life for men experiencing stress incontinence.

Urgency Incontinence

Urgency incontinence is led by the involuntary leakage of urine, accompanied by a strong and overwhelming urge to urinate. This condition arises due to irregular contractions of the bladder muscles, occurring at inappropriate times, including at night (Nocturnal Enuresis). In men, it is often associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia, although it can also be linked to various factors such as bladder inflammation, bladder stones, bladder cancer, diabetes, infection, or pelvic radiation.

Moreover, neurological conditions like Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, and stroke are commonly associated with an overactive bladder. These conditions can induce bladder spasms, resulting in the sudden urge to urinate and subsequent incontinence episodes.

Urinary Tract Infections Overview and Signs and Symptoms

Also known as a UTI, a urinary tract infection is caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract. These bacteria can affect the lining of the urinary tract and cause it to become irritated as well as infect the urethra, kidney, as well as bladder. People that experience a UTI infection can feel a burning sensation when they go to the toilet, as well as noticing cloudy or strange-smelling urine. This can also lead to urinating more often. Some men can even experience feeling a sharp pain on one side of the body, either near the abdomen or within the pelvic region. Other common symptoms are fever, fatigue, and even vomiting. Visiting your GP can determine the causes of a UTI, as well as what form of bacteria is in your urine.

UTIs don't always cause symptoms. When they do, they may include:

·         A strong urge to urinate that doesn't go away.

·         A burning feeling when urinating

·         Urinating often, and passing small amounts of urine

·         Urine that looks cloudy

·         Urine that appears red, bright pink or cola-coloured — signs of blood in the urine

·         Strong-smelling urine

Kidney Stones

Kidney stones take the form of a stone-like shape within the kidneys. Sometimes, people can pass kidney stones without even realising. Having kidney stones can affect 1-10 people across their lifespan, and is therefore a common condition, especially in men. The average demographic of people who experience kidney stones are aged 30-40.

Signs of kidney stones

Not drinking enough fluids can lead to developing kidney stones, and this can be exacerbated if your family has a history of developing kidney stones. Protein-rich foods, including meat, fish, and beans can lead to the formation of kidney stones. If you have diabetes, gout, cystic fibrosis, and must take medication that contains diuretics or calcium-based antacids can greatly impact the risk of having kidney stones.

If you are unsure as to whether you have a kidney stone, you may have noticed a sharp side pain, blood in your urine, or even nausea, when you wee. Some can even experience fever or chills.

Treating kidney stones

Drinking more fluids, especially water, having less salt in your diet, and maintaining a healthy weight can all contribute towards lessening the chances of having kidney stones. If the stones do not pass by themselves, your GP can provide medication to ease the pain, as well as to help manage nausea and relax the ureter. If effects worsen, then you may need to have surgery, such as a ureteroscopy or a shockwave lithotripsy. 

Treatment and Management Options

Treatment options for bladder problems vary depending on the specific condition and its severity. In many cases, lifestyle modifications can play a significant role in managing bladder problems. These modifications may include dietary adjustments, such as:

●        Avoiding bladder irritants like caffeine and alcohol.

●        Maintaining a healthy weight and regular exercise.

●        Bladder training exercises.

●        Scheduled voiding.

●     Male incontinence products

●        Pelvic floor exercises.

Doing each of these exercises can help improve bladder control and reduce symptoms.

In some instances, surgical interventions may be necessary. Procedures like transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) can alleviate urinary obstruction caused by an enlarged prostate, while sling procedures or artificial urinary sphincters are optional for stress incontinence.

Maintaining good bladder health is essential. This includes staying adequately hydrated, following regular bathroom habits, and practising pelvic floor exercises to strengthen the muscles that support bladder control. Taking proactive steps to promote bladder health can help manage and prevent future bladder problems.

Learn more about different incontinence products in men.

FAQs

What are common causes of incontinence in men?

Male incontinence can have various causes, such as prostate problems (prostate surgery or an enlarged prostate), nerve damage, urinary tract infections, certain medications, or weak pelvic floor muscles. Identify the underlying cause to determine the most appropriate treatment.

Can neurogenic voiding dysfunction be treated?

While neurogenic voiding dysfunction cannot be cured, it can be managed. Treatment can help relax the bladder muscle, intermittent catheterisation to empty the bladder, or surgery to improve bladder function. Your GP can give advice relating to neurogenic bladder issues and can provide guidance on the most suitable treatment plan.

How is male incontinence diagnosed?

Male incontinence is typically diagnosed through a thorough medical history review, physical examination, and possibly additional tests such as urinalysis, urodynamic studies, or imaging tests. These assessments help determine the underlying cause and guide appropriate treatment.

Can stress incontinence in men be treated without surgery?

Yes, non-surgical treatments are available for stress incontinence in men. These may include pelvic floor exercises () to strengthen the muscles that support the bladder, behavioural modifications, biofeedback therapy, or the use of a male external urinary collection device (such as a condom catheter).

How is urgency incontinence managed?

Management of urgency incontinence may involve a combination of lifestyle modifications (such as bladder training, fluid management, and dietary adjustments), medications to relax the bladder muscle, and pelvic floor exercises.