Enjoying the New Year – in Spite of BPH

The holidays are over and the New Year has begun. Now is the time many of us head south to enjoy some fun in the sun, or perhaps take to the slopes in a winter wonderland. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, or BPH, may make it very difficult to enjoy outings and vacations that we look forward to this time of year. Those suffering from BPH are often petrified at the thought of not be able to enjoy time with friends and family because they will be constantly running to the bathroom throughout the afternoon or evening. While these are very valid concerns, there are some tips and tricks that you can employ to ensure that BPH does not get in the way of your fun.

You may notice your BPH symptoms worsen this time of year. It could be due to cold weather, inactivity or perhaps you are consuming more liquids, all of which could lead to frequent or urgent urination. However, there are things you can do to help manage your symptoms. Keep warm, stay active, and try to sip, rather than gulp, refreshments. But don’t avoid liquids entirely. It’s important to hydrate. Yes, water will force you to urinate more often but the alternative – dehydration – is not a good option.

Next, be proactive in your trips to the bathroom. You may not have the urgent need to urinate right now, but it may be a good time to excuse yourself and empty your bladder. Even if you are only relieving a bit of pressure, you may avoid a potentially embarrassing moment later on. The point? Take control of your bathroom breaks – you can time them when it is most convenient and least disruptive.

This might seem implausible, but the stress of worrying about BPH, could actually make it worse. If you’re anxious about your condition, you’re not going to be able to enjoy yourself. Rather, with a clear mind, you can use the tips and tricks above to make sure that you are able to make the most of your day. 

Read more at: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000381.htm