How are the causes of lower urinary tract symptoms diagnosed?

In one of our latest medical articles here, revered consultant urologist, Mr Omar Al Kadhi, outlines the various conditions that could be associated with or causing lower urinary tract symptoms in men, before explaining how the main cause or condition is detected.

What are the conditions associated with lower urinary tract symptoms in men?

Several conditions can lead to a change in urination. Commonly, lower urinary tract infections are associated with an enlarged prostate gland, which can have several other effects, such as a sensation of urgency, incomplete emptying of the bladder, and frequent urination.

There are other conditions that can have similar symptoms, such as:

• Urine infections
• Urethral strictures
• Prostate cancer
• Bladder stones or bladder overactivity

What exactly is BPH?

BPH refers to benign prostatic hyperplasia. Basically, this means non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. One of the most common causes of urinary symptoms in older men is enlargement of the prostate gland.

Not every prostate enlargement will cause symptoms, however. The most common symptoms include reduction in the flow of urine, frequency of passing urine, a sensation of hesitancy or a delayed flow, urgency, and a sensation of incomplete bladder emptying. It is important to have these symptoms checked by a specialist as leaving hem untreated could lead to urinary retention, which is a medical emergency.

How are the causes of lower urinary tract symptoms diagnosed?

Usually, the assessment will start with a questionnaire, which is followed by a physical examination of the prostate. After this, a couple of simply tests include a urine test and flow rate test are carried out.

We often then carry out a bedside ultrasound when all of this has been complete. This ultrasound scan measures the volume of urine left in the bladder after urination. A blood test is occasionally required to check the kidney function.

How are the abovementioned symptoms treated?

Treatment will largely depend on the cause. If we take prostate enlargement and symptoms as a result of an enlargement of the prostate gland as an example, most urologists will recommend reducing alcohol and caffeine intake, taking Alpha-blockers, or changing the volume of fluid intake.

Surgery is often reserved for patients who fail to improve after the recommendations of the urologist. Minimally invasive techniques, such as implanting a device into the urethra (UroLift) can be helpful for some patients.

If you wish to make an appointment today with Mr Omar Al Kadhi, simply head on over to his Top Doctors profile today.