Urological health may be hegintend due to occurrence of these diseases in men. Here is what men over 50 should be more mindful about. Expert weighs in.
Maintaining urological health is crucial for overall well-being, particularly as we age. Certain urological conditions, such as prostate issues, 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.
Arthritis Treatment: 8 Healthy Drinks to Balance Uric Acid Levels in Your Body
As we age, the oragna bd body function may start to decline as a rite of passage. Therefore, one must be more particular towards there health. According to Dr. Adittya K. Sharma, Senior Director & Head Urology, Kidney Transplant & Robotic Uro-Oncology, Max Super Specialty Hospital Gomti Nagar Lucknow, men may face few health conditions that can trigger urological issues further. However, these can be managed by practising few everyday habits and maintaining a fitness level.
Prostate Health
The prostate is a small gland that plays a critical role in male reproductive health by producing seminal fluid. As men age, the prostate can become a source of significant health issues, including prostate cancer and BPH.
Maintaining Prostate Health:
- Regular Screening: Men over 50 should consider regular prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests and digital rectal exams (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 issues. Foods high in antioxidants, such as tomatoes (which contain lycopene), are particularly beneficial.
- Physical Activity: Regular exercise helps maintain a healthy weight and may lower 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 fluids from the blood. This condition can be life-threatening and often requires dialysis or a kidney transplant.
Preventing Kidney Failure:
- Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar Control: High blood pressure and diabetes are the leading causes of kidney failure. Keeping these conditions under control through medication, diet, and lifestyle changes is crucial.
- Hydration: Staying well-hydrated helps the kidneys function properly. However, it’s important to avoid excessive use of NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), which can harm the kidneys, especially in those with existing kidney issues.
- Regular Monitoring: For those at risk, regular kidney function tests, including blood tests and urine analysis, can help detect early signs of kidney disease.
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
BPH is the non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, which can cause urinary problems in older men. Symptoms include difficulty starting urination, a weak urine stream, and frequent nighttime urination.
Managing BPH:
- Medication: Alpha-blockers and 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors are commonly prescribed to manage BPH symptoms by relaxing prostate muscles or reducing prostate size.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Reducing fluid intake before bedtime, limiting caffeine and alcohol, and maintaining a healthy weight can alleviate symptoms.
- Surgical Options: For severe cases, surgical procedures like transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) can provide relief by removing part of the enlarged prostate.
Male Infertility
Male infertility is a condition where a man has a reduced ability to father a child. It can be due to low sperm production, abnormal sperm function, or blockages that prevent the delivery of sperm.
Improving Male Fertility:
- Healthy Lifestyle: Avoiding smoking, excessive alcohol, and recreational drugs is important, as these can negatively impact sperm quality. Maintaining a healthy weight and a balanced diet rich in antioxidants can also support sperm health.
- Medical Evaluation: Men experiencing infertility should undergo a thorough evaluation to identify potential underlying causes, such as hormonal imbalances or varicocele (enlarged veins within the scrotum).
- Assisted Reproductive Technologies: In cases where natural conception is difficult, techniques like in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) can assist in achieving pregnancy.
Focusing on specific areas such as prostate health, kidney function, and male reproductive health is essential for preventing and managing urological conditions. By adopting healthy lifestyle habits, undergoing regular screenings, and seeking timely medical advice, men can significantly improve their urological health and overall quality of life.