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Prostatism, or lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), is a common condition in older men where the prostate gland enlarges and obstructs urine flow. It can be a sign of cancer, so medical evaluation is important. Treatment options include surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. Patients may experience bladder control problems and should maintain proper hygiene.
Prostatism is a urinary tract disorder seen primarily among older men, in which enlargement of the prostate gland leads to complete or partial urinary obstruction. This condition is more properly known as lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), and while it’s common in older men, those who find it difficult to urinate shouldn’t assume it’s a normal part of aging. Sometimes it can be a sign of malignancy and it is important to get a medical evaluation.
In patients with prostatism, the prostate gland swells and begins to press on the urethra. Some patients begin to hold urine, which can cause discomfort in the bladder and lead to inflammation and infection. Others may only be able to urinate with difficulty. Prostatism often causes the urge to urinate while only producing a dribble. Patients may start having problems with weak and intermittent urine streams, leading to problems such as accidentally urinating on clothes or on the floor.
Prostate enlargement tends to occur naturally with age, but it can also be the result of cancer. A doctor can perform an evaluation to find out what’s going on and determine the best treatment option. Some prostate cancers grow very slowly, and if a man is very old, the doctor may advise against treating it, as the patient will likely die of other causes before the cancer becomes a problem. In young patients or with more aggressive tumors, surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy may be available treatment options.
In an examination of a patient with prostatism, the doctor may request a urine sample to check for inflammation and will perform a physical exam to determine the extent of the enlargement. Medical imaging studies are sometimes helpful in assessing a patient’s condition. Your doctor will also take a medical history, especially noting any family history of prostate problems, as this may influence decisions about treatment recommendations. If no treatment appears to be needed, the doctor will want to monitor the patient for any changes.
Prostatism can be frustrating for patients. Problems with bladder control may require the patient to wear a diaper in case of accidents, and some patients find this humiliating or unpleasant. The risk of making a mess in the bathroom can also be a cause for concern. Loss of control can also contribute to bad personal odors unless a man is careful with genital hygiene and takes proper care of his underwear and pants.
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