How to treat frequent urination in the elderly
Disease description:
My father has been going to the bathroom frequently during this period, but he says each time the amount of urine is not much. I would like to ask, in general, what is the best way to treat frequent urination in the elderly?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Cao Zhiqiang
Common treatments for frequent urination in the elderly:
1. Medication: For urinary frequency caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), medications such as terazosin and tamsulosin can be used to relax smooth muscles and improve urinary obstruction. Patients with larger prostate volumes may benefit from treatment with medications like finasteride or dutasteride. If there is a urinary tract infection, antibiotics are required.
2. Lifestyle modifications: Reduce intake of caffeine and alcohol, as they may irritate the bladder; schedule urination to train bladder capacity; avoid excessive fluid intake at night to reduce nocturia; maintain a healthy weight, as excess weight increases abdominal pressure and affects bladder function.
3. Physical therapy: Pelvic floor muscle exercises can help strengthen the ability to control urination. Electrical stimulation and biofeedback are also effective methods for improving bladder control.
4. Surgical treatment: For severe cases of BPH or other anatomical abnormalities causing urinary frequency, when medication is ineffective, surgical options such as transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) or urethral balloon dilation may be considered.
