Once men cross the age of 50, changes in urination become increasingly common – even though not all symptoms are simply part of normal ageing. A few conditions, like Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, or enlarged prostate, affect nearly one in three men over 50 and can lead to frequent urination, weak urine stream, nocturia (night-time urination), hesitancy, and a feeling of incomplete bladder emptying.
While mild urinary changes may be manageable, it is important to understand the difference between normal prostate enlargement and dangerous urinary symptoms.
According to Dr Kishore, any symptom that prevents travel, consistently disturbs sleep, or causes significant distress needs to be addressed immediately.
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While BPH is the main culprit, other conditions can also cause similar symptoms.
Also known as a prostate infection, it causes a lot of pain, burning, and urgency.
While often symptomless in early stages, it becomes more common in men in their 60s and 70s, but can occur in the late 40s and 50s as well.
Uncontrolled, long-standing diabetes can damage the bladder, causing diabetic cystopathy, leading to a less effective bladder muscle that cannot fully empty. “Neurological conditions like Parkinson's disease can also disrupt the brain's control over urination, causing urgency and frequency, even without a prostate problem,” said Dr Kishore.
Constipation and certain medications, such as diuretic drugs taken for cardiac conditions, can also influence urine output and flow.
According to Dr Sanman Gowda, HOD and Consultant Urology, KMC Hospital, a few other warning signs of an enlarged prostate include:
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