It may be a sign that you drank too much the night before or it could be a sign of a significantly larger problem in men. Making multiple trips to the bathroom in the middle of the night is often a sign of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or an “enlarged prostate”.
An enlarged prostate is not prostate cancer but often presents with many of the same symptoms. Like cancer, BPH increases the overall size and number of cells that make up the prostate. When enlarged, it squeezes the urethra, or the thin tube that travels through the penis from the bladder, causing an intense urge to urinate.
There are four key symptoms of BPH to look out for. An enlarged prostate prevents one from being able to fully empty their bladder. This results in urinating much more often than normal with a heightened level of urgency, especially in the middle of the night. With the semi-blockage, it’s common for one to strain starting and maintaining a strong urine stream.
BPH is a growing problem in the region due to ageing populations and doctors are not exactly sure what causes it. Despite the unknown, BPH affects half of all men between the ages of 50 and 60.
Some research is pointing to BPH being associated with the same risk factors that cause health condition such has obesity, diabetes, high cholesterol and heart and vascular disorders. Lifestyle factors such as physical inactivity, tobacco use and poor diet can possibly increase BPH risk and worsen its symptoms.
A diet that is rich in essential nutrients, vitamins and minerals has been found to be beneficial in preventing and treating BPH. Vitamin C has the greatest protective effect and can be found in vegetable juices, tomatoes, broccoli, kale, cauliflower and bell peppers. Foods that are high in zinc also appear to be beneficial.
Don’t drink a lot of fluids all at once. Too much can go straight to one’s bladder versus having a hydrating effect on the body. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, especially within two hours of bedtime. It’s important to reduce stress and improve circulation by exercising regularly.
Other self-care techniques for BPH include not taking over-the-counter sinus and cold medications that contain decongestants or antihistamines. These medications have been found to increase the symptoms of BPH.
Dr Cory Couillard is an international health columnist that works in collaboration with the World Health Organization's goals of disease prevention and global health care education. Views do not necessarily reflect endorsement.
Email: drcorycouillard@gmail.com
Facebook: Dr Cory Couillard
Twitter: DrCoryCouillard
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