Is it normal for men to need to use the toilet more frequently as they age?
April 17, 2023 | 80,00 EUR | answered by Jan Schulz
Dear Doctor,
My name is Tobias Krause and I am reaching out to you because I am concerned about my health. Lately, I have noticed that I need to go to the bathroom more frequently than before. I am 60 years old and have never had any issues with my bladder before. Normally, I could go several hours without needing to use the restroom, but recently I have to run to the toilet every few hours.
This change is worrying me as it is affecting my daily life. I also wake up multiple times at night to go to the bathroom, which disrupts my sleep and makes me tired during the day. I am wondering if it is normal for men of my age to have to go to the bathroom more often or if this could be a sign of a serious health problem.
I have already tried to reduce my fluid intake and drink less in the evening, but so far it has not made any improvement. Therefore, I am wondering if there are possible causes for my increased urination and what steps I can take to solve this problem. Are there any medications or treatments that could help me? Should I see a urologist to further investigate my symptoms?
I look forward to your response and thank you in advance for your help.
Sincerely,
Tobias Krause
Dear Tobias Krause,
thank you for your message and your trust in my online consultation. It is important that you reach out to me with your health concerns, and I will do my best to help you.
It is understandable that you are worried about the changes in your urination and their impact on your daily life. The fact that you have been needing to go to the toilet more frequently lately could indeed indicate a health issue that should be further investigated.
In men of your age, increased urination and waking up at night to go to the bathroom can have various causes. One common cause is benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), also known as enlarged prostate. As men age, the prostate can enlarge and press on the urethra, leading to more frequent urination and other symptoms. Other possible causes for increased urination could be urinary tract infection, diabetes, bladder infection, or side effects of certain medications.
It is important that you see a doctor to have your symptoms evaluated. A urologist is a specialist in urinary tract and male reproductive issues, and can help with diagnosing and treating your symptoms. The doctor will likely perform a physical examination, inquire about your medical history, and may conduct further tests such as a urine or blood test, ultrasound, or bladder examination.
Depending on the cause of your symptoms, there are different treatment options available. For an enlarged prostate, medications or surgery to relieve urinary obstruction may be recommended. For other causes, medications or lifestyle changes can also help alleviate symptoms.
It is good that you have already tried to reduce your fluid intake, but it is important that you discuss your symptoms with a doctor to receive the correct diagnosis and best possible treatment.
I strongly recommend that you schedule an appointment with a urologist to further evaluate your symptoms and receive appropriate treatment. Do not hesitate to seek professional help to protect your health and improve your quality of life.
I hope that my response helps you and I am available for any further questions.
Best regards,
Jan Schulz
