Our bodies undergo several changes as we get older, which is completely normal. However, urologic health often gets put aside to focus on "more serious" conditions. In reality, maintaining a healthy urinary system is imperative, especially if you have other underlying conditions. To help, here's a comprehensive guide to urological health for seniors.
How the Urinary Tract System Changes as You Get Older
As we age, the urinary tract system tends to decrease in efficiency due to weakening muscles, inflammation, and more. These changes can lead to an increased susceptibility to urological issues, which can cause distress and make it hard to navigate daily life. Consider the following age-related changes to the urinary tract:
Reduced Kidney Function
One significant change is a decrease in age-related kidney function. The kidneys play a crucial role in filtering waste and excess fluids from the blood to create urine. However, as we age, the number of nephrons—the functional units that filter blood—decreases. This reduction in nephron count can lead to decreased function and a reduced ability to filter waste, potentially resulting in kidney-related complications.
Lower Bladder Capacity
The bladder is a hollow organ responsible for storing urine until it is expelled from the body, and this muscle also undergoes age-related changes. One of the most common changes is decreased bladder health and capacity. This means that as you get older, it becomes more difficult to hold urine in your bladder, which results in more frequent trips to the bathroom. The risk of bladder problems in seniors also increases.
Inflammation
As we age, inflammation becomes increasingly common throughout the body. In regard to urology, inflammation often affects the urethra, which can result in problems such as restricted urine flow, urinary tract infections, and other bladder problems. Inflammation is also tied to an enlarged prostate and can make it difficult to empty the bladder.
Urinary Incontinence in Older Adults
Urinary incontinence is a rising concern in seniors. It refers to the involuntary loss of bladder control, which causes you to leak urine unexpectedly. The risk factors for urinary incontinence in seniors include age-related changes in the urinary tract, weakened pelvic muscles, and other medical conditions. Let's delve deeper into the types of urinary incontinence and strategies to manage this issue effectively.
- Stress Incontinence: This type of incontinence occurs when physical activities, such as sneezing, laughing, or lifting, lead to urine leakage. Weakened pelvic floor muscles often contribute to stress incontinence.
- Urge Incontinence: Urge incontinence is characterized by a sudden, intense urge to urinate, followed by involuntary leakage. It is often associated with an overactive bladder.
- Overflow Incontinence: In this type of incontinence, the bladder doesn't empty fully, leading to constant dribbling or leakage. It's usually caused by an obstruction or weak bladder muscles.
- Functional Incontinence: Functional incontinence occurs when physical or cognitive impairments make it challenging for seniors to reach the restroom in time. This can be a result of conditions like arthritis, dementia, or multiple sclerosis.
Although more common among women, urinary incontinence in men can and does still occur. Luckily, there are several things that you can do to support healthy aging and decrease your risk of incontinence. If it does occur, effective management of UI may involve behavioral and lifestyle changes, pelvic floor exercises, medications, or surgical interventions, depending on the type and severity of incontinence.
The Risk of Urinary Tract Infections in Seniors
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) occur when bacteria enter the urinary system and multiply, leading to symptoms such as frequent urination, burning sensations, and lower abdominal discomfort. UTIs are common among seniors due to a decreased ability to empty the bladder completely. The risk also increases due to reduced immune function, age-related changes in the body, and urinary incontinence. Prompt diagnosis and treatment of UTIs are crucial to prevent complications such as bladder infections, upper urinary infections, and sepsis.
Prostate-Related Conditions as Men Age
For men, aging often brings specific concerns, primarily related to the prostate gland. In addition to low testosterone levels and erectile dysfunction, two conditions to be aware of are benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer.
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
In men over 40, a condition known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) becomes increasingly prevalent. BPH refers to the non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, which surrounds the urethra. As the prostate grows, it can put pressure on the urethra, leading to urinary symptoms, such as increased urgency and difficulty emptying the bladder. Management may include lifestyle changes, medications, minimally invasive procedures, or, in some cases, surgery. Regular check-ups with a urologist can help ensure the area around the urethra is healthy and free of obstructions.
Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men. Although it primarily affects older men, it can develop in younger individuals. This type of cancer develops when cells in the prostate gland begin to grow uncontrollably. Although it can be scary, early detection can increase your likelihood of remission dramatically.
Screening typically involves a blood test for prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels and a digital rectal examination. Treatment options range from active surveillance to surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, depending on the stage and aggressiveness of the cancer.
The Rise of Bladder Cancer
Bladder cancer is another concern that becomes more prevalent as people age. This cancer develops in the lining of the bladder and often presents with symptoms like blood in the urine, pain during urination, and increased frequency of urination.
Smoking is the primary risk factor for bladder cancer, but aging is also a significant contributor. Detection and treatment in the early stages of bladder cancer are essential for improving outcomes. Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy, depending on the cancer's stage and grade.
Changes in Urination to Watch For
Typically speaking, when you need to urinate, the neurons in your bladder alert your brain, and you have plenty of time to find a bathroom. While changes in urination are normal, especially when you make lifestyle changes, some issues may require urology care. Still, any type of changes that occur when you use the bathroom should be mentioned to your urologist.
- Urinary Retention — difficulty emptying the bladder completely.
- Increased Frequency — using the bathroom more often than usual.
- Nocturia — the need to wake up during the night to urinate.
- Urinary Urgency — a sudden and compelling need to urinate.
- Weak Urine Stream — reduced urine flow or strength.
- Trouble Beginning Urination — difficulty initiating the flow of urine.
- Urine Leakage — large or small amounts of urine leak involuntarily.
If you notice any of the above, make an appointment to see a urologist. Seniors are at a higher risk for these issues, but you shouldn't feel embarrassed about sharing sensitive information related to bathroom habits. In doing so, you'll be able to get the proper urologic care and take back control of your life.
How to Address Urology Complications in Seniors
Addressing urological complications in seniors requires a personalized approach that should be discussed with your primary care provider and urologist. Some strategies to help you maintain urologic health as you age include:
- Regular Check-ups: Routine check-ups with a healthcare provider are crucial for early detection and management of urology-related conditions, such as BPH, prostate cancer, and UTIs.
- Healthy Diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help reduce the risk of kidney stones and provide essential nutrients for urologic health.
- Hydration: Drinking enough water is essential for preventing kidney stones and promoting proper urinary function.
- Pelvic Floor Exercises: These exercises (i.e., Kegel exercises), can help strengthen the muscles that support your bladder and alleviate symptoms of bladder control issues.
- Medication Management: Discussing potential side effects with a healthcare provider is important if prescribed medications contribute to issues. Adjustments or alternative medications may be necessary.
- Smoking Cessation: Quitting smoking is essential for reducing the risk of bladder cancer and other urological conditions.
- Fall Prevention: Reducing the risk of falls can help prevent injuries that might lead to functional incontinence in seniors.
- Infection Prevention: Practicing good hygiene and taking preventative measures, such as cranberry supplements, can reduce the risk of UTIs.
Prioritizing urological care as you age can help you reduce the risk of urinary problems, maintain a healthy reproductive system, and give you a stronger peace of mind when navigating daily life. If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to contact your urologist or primary care doctor. In the meantime, Byram Healthcare offers a wide selection of high-quality urologic supplies that can be discreetly delivered to your door. Browse our urology products today or call one of our representatives for more information.
