Can an enlarged prostate cause overactive bladder in men?

Although overactive bladder affects up to 30% of men in the United States, many men have difficulty asking for help. That’s why it’s important to know that overactive bladder in men, like most urinary incontinence issues, is not a disease in its own right—it’s the symptom of some other underlying issue. In men, the cause is often related to an enlarged prostate; this CAN be caused by a cancerous tumor, so it’s important to seek diagnostic treatment at the first sign of trouble. Here are five symptoms to help you decide when it’s time to talk with your doctor.rnrn rn

rn t
1. Sudden Urges. Overactive bladder in men often causes a sudden and intense urge to urinate. It may come at any time of day, whether or not you’ve had anything to drink. The urge to urinate may come after you’ve already emptied your bladder—and you may have trouble making it to the restroom in time.

rn

rn rn

rn t
2. Frequent Going. Do you keep track of how many times a day you urinate? If you think you might have an enlarged prostate, you might want to start. If you haven’t recently increased your fluid intake and you’re not taking any diuretic medication, you shouldn’t need to urinate more than eight times in a 24-hour period. Each trip can yield as much as a cup and a half of urine.

rn

rn rn

rn t
3. Nighttime Urges. If you have an overactive bladder, your urge to urinate may wake you up in the night—this symptom is called “nocturia,” and it can be a symptom of an enlarged prostate. If you’re getting up more than twice in one night to urinate, it’s time to talk to your doctor.

rn

rn rn

rn t
4. Frequent Leakage. We’ve all had moments throughout our lives when we really thought we might not make it to the restroom. But with overactive bladder in men, these “pee panic” moments can be a daily occurrence—and they often end in accidents. If you often lose control of your bladder before you reach the restroom, it’s time to seek professional guidance.

rn

rn rn

rn t
5. Disrupted Lifestyle. Do you ever find yourself scoping out a restaurant or museum to make sure you know where the nearest restroom is? Do you avoid long car rides or remote locations? Or has the frequent need to urinate caused you to avoid social situations altogether? Overactive bladder in men can become a quality of life issue, so don’t wait to seek treatment.

rn

rn rnrnUntil you and your doctor determine whether or not you have an enlarged prostate, protective men’s incontinence undergarments can help ensure that you can face each day with confidence. Not sure which incontinence pads or garments are right for you? Take our interactive quiz now to find your perfect fit.