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HELP RELIEVE SYMPTOMS OF BPH WITH INTERMITTENT CATHETERS
Many men struggle with an enlarged prostate, or BPH, which can cause uncomfortable urinary symptoms and urinary retention. A lesser-known treatment option, self-intermittent catheterization, may be a solution to help you find relief.
An enlarged prostate – also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) – is one of the most common
causes of bladder issues in men as they mature.
Typically, the prostate gland continues to grow in adult life making BPH common in men over the age of 50. As the prostate gland continues to get larger, it impacts the bladder and can press the urethra,
limiting or blocking the flow of urine.
With an enlarged prostate and narrow urethra, limitations to completely empty the bladder, a condition
called urinary retention, can cause uncomfortable urinary symptoms from mild to life-threatening. This
can affect men in different ways but ultimately there are two types of urinary retention:
Chronic urine retention.
This develops over time and symptoms are not always obvious. People with chronic urinary retention can urinate but cannot completely empty the urine from their bladders. With the pressure from the urine left inside the bladder, the bladder muscle can slowly stretch and become weak. Symptoms such as trouble urinating, frequent urination, or leaking urine, are indicators to speak with a healthcare professional about symptoms and possible treatments. Chronic urinary retention can cause serious health problems and shouldn’t be ignored.
Acute urine retention
More significant, uncomfortable, and potentially life-threatening, acute urinary retention, is a serious condition that should be addressed with a healthcare professional right away. Acute urinary retention includes symptoms such as severe abdominal pain and the inability to urinate.
TAKING CONTROL OF YOUR SYMPTOMS
Not all men need treatment for BPH. Treatment options usually depend on symptoms, age, overall health, and the prostate size. Options for treatment can range from adjustments in life style to medications, to medical procedures, or surgery. Recommendations from a healthcare professional may also include the use of an intermittent catheter.
Using an intermittent catheter to regularly and fully empty the bladder may help avoid urinary retention symptoms or complications. Self-catheterization can provide many men who have an enlarged prostate with the control they want over their bladder symptoms.
Speaking with a healthcare professional is most important to discuss what options may be best for you.
INTERMITTENT CATHETER SOLUTIONS TO ADDRESS BPH
Self-intermittent catheterization (IC), is the insertion and removal of a catheter throughout the day in
order to help empty the bladder completely. This technique can be either a short-term or long-term
solution, depending on your medical condition. It is always best to speak with a healthcare professional
if you’re experiencing any urinary symptoms or complications and to best understand if IC is a solution
for you.
If you’ve been prescribed an intermittent catheter, the process to self-cath, at first may seem overwhelming. The me+ program from Convatec is here to help navigate life using intermittent catheters, with access to certified nurses, innovative product solutions, and helpful articles with tips and advice.
“The me+ program is amazing and was so helpful to me and my recovery! Thank you Convatec for providing these immensely valuable resources.”
Convatec me+ member
It’s easy to find a product solution among the wide range of innovative GentleCath™ and Cure Medical catheter options. New products like GentleCath Air™ for Men with FeelClean™ Technology, can help make self-catheterization easier and more comfortable, whether you are at home or on-the-go. GentleCath Air™ for Men is discreet, portable and offers superior comfort.* Discover relief today and learn more about ordering free samples.
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