In this guide brought to you by 1Prostate in New York, we explain how drinking alcohol affects benign prostatic hyperplasia.

What Is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia?

Benign prostatic hyperplasia, abbreviated as BPH, is a medical condition characterized by an enlarged prostate gland. This condition gets more common as men get older. Research shows that over 50% of men in their 60s and up to 90% of men over 70 years of age have some symptoms of BPH.

Though there are some misconceptions about an enlarged prostate, BPH is a non-cancerous condition and does not increase a patient’s risk for prostate cancer. An enlarged prostate can result in uncomfortable urinary symptoms. In some patients, BPH can also cause urinary tract, bladder, or kidney issues. Fortunately, for anyone experiencing discomfort or other medical concerns because of an enlarged prostate, there are a number of treatment options for BPH.

What Are The Symptoms of BPH?

In patients with BPH, an enlarged prostate can compress the urethra or push against the bladder. Benign prostatic hyperplasia is associated with LUTS (lower urinary tract symptoms). Symptoms of BPH can include:

• An urgent need to urinate

• Increased frequency of urination—especially at night (nocturia)

• Inability to urinate or straining while urinating

• Weak urine stream

• A urine stream that starts and stops (intermittence)

• Unable to empty your bladder completely

• Dribbling at the end of urinating

How Does Alcohol Consumption Impact BPH? 

Various factors can increase the risk of developing BPH. These include chronic illnesses such as diabetes and heart disease, as well as age and hormones. In addition, lifestyle factors such as obesity and smoking may also increase the likelihood of developing an enlarged prostate. Though alcohol consumption does not cause BPH, studies have shown that alcohol consumption can worsen the symptoms. BPH symptoms associated with excessive alcohol consumption include:

• Constricting the bladder neck. Alcohol can result in inflammation, which can make urinating more difficult.

• Increases the urge to urinate. Alcohol is a diuretic that can increase the amount of urine entering the bladder. This can be very uncomfortable for those already having difficulty emptying their bladder. 

• Dehydration. Alcohol dehydrates your body which can further weaken your urine stream.

What Are Lifestyle Changes Someone Can Make When Drinking Alcohol With BPH?

If you have BPH, consider limiting the amount of alcohol you drink to avoid exacerbating your symptoms. If you do decide to drink alcohol, consider the following lifestyle changes:

• Avoid drinking alcohol at night.

• While you are drinking alcohol, drink water to avoid dehydration.

• Limit the fluids you drink before bedtime, especially coffee.

• Do not hold your urine for too long.

• Increase physical activity and include pelvic floor exercises.

• Quit smoking.

• Eat a balanced diet with an emphasis on citrus fruits, cruciferous vegetables, and berries. Avoid red meat, dairy, and sodium.

• Maintain a healthy weight.

What Treatments Are Available For BPH? 

At 1Prostate in New York, we believe in educating our patients so that they can determine the best option for their unique situation. At 1Prostate, we can help you find a solution tailored uniquely to you. Our treatment options include:

• Medications

• Prostatic Artery Embolization (PAE)

• TUMT (Transurethral Microwave Thermotherapy)

• Urolift: The Prostatic Urethral Lift

• Rezum Water Vapor Therapy

• TURP (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate)

Am I A Good Candidate For BPH Treatment?

If you’re ready to stop living and stop coping, it’s time for treatment. For anyone seeking the best prostate care in New York City, consider 1Prostate. 1Prostate is proud to offer a number of treatments to address Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia with two locations to serve Manhattan, Queens, and the surrounding areas. At 1Prostate, we can provide the latest, state-of-the-art non-surgical treatment to address enlarged prostate and its symptoms. Call 212-991-9991 to ask about how we can help you today.