Overview
An enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia) is common in men over 50 and can press on the urine tube, causing a weak stream and frequent trips to the toilet. Overactive bladder causes a sudden, strong urge to pass urine and can affect both men and women. Both are treatable.
Causes
- Natural growth of the prostate with age
- Overactive bladder muscle
- Urine infections
- Diabetes and some medicines
Risk factors
- Age over 50 (prostate)
- Family history
- Obesity
- Diabetes
Symptoms
- Weak or interrupted urine stream
- Needing to pass urine often, especially at night
- Sudden urge and sometimes leaking
- Feeling that the bladder is not empty
Diagnosis
Your doctor will ask about symptoms, examine you and may check urine, a PSA blood test and an ultrasound of the bladder and prostate.
Management
- Medicines such as tamsulosin and dutasteride for an enlarged prostate
- Bladder relaxants such as solifenacin for overactive bladder
- Cutting down on tea, coffee and fluids before bed
- Bladder training
- Surgery in some cases
When to see a doctor
See a doctor for urinary symptoms that bother you. Get urgent help if you cannot pass urine at all, or have blood in the urine, fever or back pain.
This information is for general awareness and does not replace advice from your doctor. Prescription medicines are supplied only against a valid prescription. Questions? Ask our pharmacist on WhatsApp.