How a Urologist Can Help Avoid a Chronic UTI

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are most commonly diagnosed in women, but many men over 50 are at increased risk of developing this infection due to an enlarged prostate gland. Most men will experience symptoms of an enlarged prostate as they age, including effects on the bladder that can cause a chronic UTI. A urologist can help avoid a UTI and its uncomfortable symptoms by treating the underlying issue.

Some of the most common symptoms of an enlarged prostate or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) include:

• Difficulty urinating
• Straining to empty the bladder
• A weak stream of urine and/or dribbling after finishing
• Frequent urination, including waking several times at night to urinate
• Difficulty holding urine in, incontinence

The prostate gland is situated close to the urethra, a tube that connects the bladder to the outside of the body. When the prostate gland swells, it can compress or block urine flow through the urethra.

If an enlarged prostate is not treated, these symptoms can get worse over time and cause complications that may include:

• Urinary retention or complete inability to urinate
• Bladder or kidney damage
• Bladder stones
• UTI

When urine is prevented from flowing normally due to the prostate gland restricting the urethra, bacteria can develop in the bladder and urethra. This will often result in a UTI. Antibiotics can treat the infection, but the infection will come back without addressing the underlying cause.

Dr. Richard Natale is a board-certified and skilled urologist in the Charlotte area. He has successfully treated many cases of enlarged prostate and offers a number of effective BPH treatments.

If you are experiencing symptoms of an enlarged prostate, Dr. Natale can help. Don’t wait until a more serious health issue, like a UTI, develops. Call Carolina Urology Partners at (704) 786-5131 for an appointment in our Concord or Charlotte, North Carolina area office, or request an appointment online.