Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms

Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms or LUTS are urinary symptoms triggered by an abnormality, obstruction, irritation or infection of the urethra, bladder, urinary sphincter and prostate (in men). A neurological health condition or injury can also cause LUTS. LUTS can be categorised as related to urine storage or obstructions and present as various dysfunctions. Both men and women can be diagnosed with LUTS, but it is most often diagnosed in men with a Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) or enlarged prostate. Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms are not a normal part of the ageing process, but it is diagnosed more often as people age.

Storage Symptoms

In addition to BPH, individuals with an overactive bladder, chronic pelvic pain (interstitial cystitis), prostate infections (prostatitis) or urinary tract infections (UTIs) typically experience LUTS associated with urine storage inflammation or irritation. These symptoms can include:

• Urinating more frequently
• Urinary urgency
• Incontinence
• Nocturia - urinating several times at night

Obstruction Symptoms

Individuals diagnosed with LUTS may also exhibit obstruction issues caused by blockages such as BPH (enlarged prostate). As men age, their prostates naturally enlarge. For some men, excess prostate tissue can squeeze onto the urethra and block the regular flow of urine. When this happens, you may experience:

• Hesitancy - you may feel the need to urinate, but the flow doesn't immediately start.
• Weak or intermittent urine stream
• Starting or continuing urination is difficult.
• Dribbling after urination.
• The feeling of incomplete emptying after urination.

Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms can also be caused by medical conditions and lifestyle habits that affect the lower urinary tract, such as diabetes, obesity and high blood pressure. In addition, bladder irritants like smoking, caffeine, alcohol intake and specific food choices can produce LUTS.

It is crucial to properly diagnose the underlying condition or behaviour to treat lower urinary tract symptoms. Therefore, when you visit Dr Mkhize, you can expect a thorough review of your medical history, current conditions and medications, and a physical examination. He may also recommend a urinalysis, blood tests, imaging and a digital rectal exam to analyse the prostate gland.