Bladder outlet obstruction in men: Bladder wall thickness may predict severity

To determine the severity of bladder outlet obstruction in men, researchers suggest observing the bladder wall thickness in those with minimal urinary tract symptoms secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia.

For the findings 236 men with lower urinary tract symptoms were examined to determine a relationship between bladder wall thickness and bladder outlet obstruction. What they found was when bladder outlet obstruction increased, bladder wall thickness increased as well. Therefore, in order to understand the severity of bladder outlet obstruction in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia, it’s important to look at the bladder wall thickness.

Bladder outlet obstruction is when there is a blockage at the base of the bladder. This interrupts urine flow and can make it difficult to urinate. Complications can arise from bladder outlet obstruction, like the urine travelling back into the system, which can lead to uncomfortable urinary symptoms.

Causes of bladder outlet obstruction in men

There are many different causes of bladder obstruction in men – some common and others not as common. Causes of bladder outlet obstruction include:

• Benign prostatic hyperplasia
• Bladder stones
• Bladder tumors
• Pelvic tumors
• Urethral stricture
• Foreign objects
• Posterior urethral valves
• Urethral spasms
• Urethral diverticula
• Prostate cancer

Symptoms of bladder outlet obstruction in men

Symptoms of bladder outlet obstruction may vary but can include the following:

• Abdominal pain
• Continuous feeling of full bladder
• Frequent urination
• Inability to urinate
• Pain during urination
• Problems starting urination
• Slow urine flow
• Urinary tract infection
• Urinary intermittency – stop and go urine flow
• Nocturia – waking up to urinate
• Nausea, fatigue, and fluid retention if kidney failure occurs

Natural ways for men to keep their bladders healthy

When it comes to matters of the bladder it is commonly spoken about as a female problem. But men, too, can have issues with their bladder, including bladder outlet obstruction. For this reason, it’s important for men to become mindful of their bladders – especially the older they get – and partake in natural ways to prevent conditions which can affect the bladder.

Below are some easy tips men can utilize in order to keep their bladders healthy.

• Don’t hold in your urine: When using the bathroom always ensure you empty your bladder completely. On the same note, ensure you are not holding in your urine for prolonged periods of time as this can contribute to a weaker bladder.

• Stay hydrated: Of course, the more fluids you drink the more you will have to urinate, but it’s important to stay hydrated as urinating promotes the release of bacteria which can contribute to bladder infections which can lead to further complications.

• Get moving: Even exercise can work wonders on your bladder health. Why? Because it has been shown that people who don’t get moving are at higher risk of heart disease which leads to fluid retention. Fluid retention leads to an overactive bladder throughout the night which can impede on your sleep and overall health.

• Don’t smoke: Smoking can cause bladder cancer.

• Practice your Kegels: Men and women alike can work on their Kegels. It’s an exercise involving the tightening of the pelvic muscles, similar to when you’re holding in urine. Because it is so discrete it can be done anytime and anywhere without anyone else’s knowledge.

• Drink caffeinated beverages properly: If you suffer from bladder incontinence, it’s important to be mindful of when you consume caffeinated beverages – which act as a diuretic. Avoid beverages prior to bed or before a long commute for safe practice.

• Drink cranberry juice: Of course, the natural variety and not the sugared-up cocktail form. Cranberry juice is often recommended when a person has a bladder infection, but as a preventative measure drink it daily.

Men and women should take care of their bladders because over time bladders can become weak and leaky. The above simple tips can better help you prevent bladder infections as well as promote a stronger bladder.