Urological health can be affected by the appearance of these diseases in men. Here’s what men over 50 should keep in mind. Expert opinion.
Maintaining urological health is critical to overall well-being, particularly as we age. Certain urological conditions, such as prostate problems, kidney failure, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), male sexual dysfunction, and male infertility, are common, but can often be managed or prevented with the right approach.
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As we age, bodily functions may start declining like a rite of passage. Therefore, one needs to be more careful about their health. According to Dr. Adittya K. Sharma, Senior Director & Head, Urology, Kidney Transplantation & Robotic Uro-Oncology, Max Super Specialty Hospital Gomti Nagar Lucknow, men may face some health conditions that can trigger further urological problems. However, these can be controlled by practicing some everyday habits and maintaining a fitness level.
Prostate health
The prostate is a small gland that plays a key role in male reproductive health by producing seminal fluid. As men age, the prostate can become a source of major health problems, including prostate cancer and BPH.
Maintaining prostate health:
- Periodic evaluation:Men over age 50 should consider regular prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing and digital rectal examinations (DRE) to monitor prostate health. Early detection of prostate cancer can significantly improve treatment outcomes.
- Healthy diet:A diet rich in fruits, vegetables and healthy fats can reduce the risk of prostate problems. Foods rich in antioxidants, such as tomatoes (which contain lycopene), are especially beneficial.
- Physical activity: Regular exercise helps maintain a healthy weight and may reduce the risk of prostate cancer. Obesity has been linked to an increased risk of aggressive prostate cancer.
Kidney failure
Kidney failure, or end-stage renal disease (ESRD), occurs when the kidneys lose their ability to filter waste and excess fluid from the blood. This condition can be life-threatening and often requires dialysis or a kidney transplant.
Prevention of kidney failure:
- Blood pressure and blood sugar control: High blood pressure and diabetes are the main causes of kidney failure. It is essential to keep these conditions under control through medication, diet and lifestyle changes.
- Hydration: Staying well hydrated helps the kidneys function properly. However, it is important to avoid overuse of NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), which can damage the kidneys, especially in people with existing kidney problems.
- Regular monitoring: For people at risk, regular kidney function tests, including blood and urine tests, can help detect early signs of kidney disease.
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that can cause urinary problems in older men. Symptoms include difficulty starting to urinate, weak urine stream, and frequent urination at night.
Management of BPH:
- Medicine: Alpha blockers and 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors are commonly prescribed to control the symptoms of BPH by relaxing the prostate muscles or reducing the size of the prostate.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Reducing fluid intake before bed, limiting caffeine and alcohol, and maintaining a healthy weight may relieve symptoms.
- Surgical options: For severe cases, surgical procedures such as transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) may provide relief by removing part of the enlarged prostate.
Male infertility
Male infertility is a condition in which a man has a reduced ability to father a child. It may be due to low sperm production, abnormal sperm function, or blockages that prevent sperm from fertilizing.
Improving male fertility:
- Healthy lifestyle: It is important to avoid tobacco, excessive alcohol consumption and recreational drugs, as these can negatively affect sperm quality. Maintaining a healthy weight and a balanced diet rich in antioxidants can also promote sperm health.
- Medical evaluation: Men experiencing infertility should undergo a thorough evaluation to identify possible underlying causes, such as hormonal imbalances or varicocele (enlarged veins within the scrotum).
- Assisted reproductive technologies: In cases where natural conception is difficult, techniques such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) can help achieve pregnancy.
Focusing on specific areas such as prostate health, kidney function, and male reproductive health is essential to preventing and managing urological conditions. By adopting healthy lifestyle habits, undergoing regular screening, and seeking timely medical advice, men can significantly improve their urological health and overall quality of life.
