Tips For Managing Symptoms Of Benign Prostate Hyperplasia (BPH)
The symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) are extremely uncomfortable and may include symptoms such as frequent urination, a hesitant stream, urgency, or leaking, and a feeling of incomplete emptying. While these symptoms may seem minor, they can be disruptive to your daily life. Making some lifestyle changes can often help you control the symptoms of BPH and prevent your condition from worsening. Below are some tips for dealing with symptoms of BPH.
Watch What And How Much You Drink
This is especially true of alcoholic beverages and caffeinated drinks. The diuretic properties of both can exacerbate the frequent urge to urinate. Alcohol and caffeine can cause the bladder’s elasticity to weaken. They also stimulate kidney activity, producing a more frequent need to urinate compared to a soft drink or water.
Check Your Medications
If you are taking prescription and over-the-counter medications such as antihistamines and decongestants, it is worthwhile speaking to your doctor about them as many have been found to worsen BPH symptoms.
Exercise Your Bladder Muscles
Besides urinary frequency, other annoying BPH symptoms include dribbling, leaking, and feeling a sense of urgency. You may be able to control these symptoms by strengthening the muscles around your bladder neck with Kegel exercises. To do Kegels, contract the muscles that you use to keep from urinating and squeeze tightly for 10 seconds. Then relax the muscles and repeat about 10 times. Doing these exercises three to five times every day may improve bladder control.
Take The Time To Completely Empty Your Bladder
When urinating, particularly in the evening just prior to bedtime, take the time to completely empty your bladder because it will reduce the need for subsequent trips to the bathroom during the night. Also consider using the double-voiding technique: after your initial strong stream of urine comes out, wait a moment and then try again to see if more comes out.
Reduce Stress
Relaxation has many physical benefits and it’s also helpful for managing the symptoms of BPH. Reduce stress by exercising regularly and practicing relaxation techniques such as meditation.
Stay Warm
Colder temperatures can make it more difficult to urinate and also can increase the urgency to urinate in some people. Make sure you dress up warmly when you’re outdoors, especially during the winter. In addition also try to avoid drafts and sitting on cold surfaces.
While these steps won’t cure your BPH they will help to lessen and alleviate your symptoms. However if your symptoms do reach a point where they are unmanageable, be sure to talk to your doctor about treatment.
