Men's Health: Natural approaches for better prostate health Men's Health | Page 32

Men ’ s Health : Natural health approaches for better prostate health
fact numerous reasons for this ( i . e . food or drink consumed at night ). However , where this is not the case , frequent urination should be brought to the doctor ’ s attention .
Incontinence Most men do not like to talk about incontinence , but it is very common and millions of men suffer the symptoms of incontinence daily . In simple terms , the definition of incontinence relates to bladder or bowel control and the loss of urine or stools on an involuntary basis . Incontinence is actually a symptom of a condition that could mean that there is an infection , the result of a pelvic injury , a birth defect , or even degenerative changes as a result of aging . In relation to prostate cancer or prostatectomy , up to 63 % of patients experience urinary incontinence for up to a 12-month period following surgery . The more informed an individual is about urinary incontinence , the greater the confidence with respect to decision making . This can help with the management of incontinence .
Incontinence often occurs following surgery due to changes in the shape or size of the urethra and this is due to the proximity of the urethra to the prostate gland . With respect to prostate cancer treatments , radiation therapy or surgical removal are common and those who opt for surgery are more likely to experience stress-related urinary incontinence .
Pelvic Floor Muscles Using the pelvic floor muscles will help with bladder control . They need to be used regularly as with any muscle and this will aid their ability to function . If surgery has taken place because of prostate cancer , there may be damage to the mechanisms that hold urine within the bladder . Thus , incontinence can happen through simply coughing or sneezing . If surgery is required , it is best to practice pelvic floor muscle exercises prior to commencing treatment as this may reduce the impact of surgery or the risk of incontinence later . Exercising can help to increase or rebuild the strength of the bladder , something that is particularly important for any man suffering from stress or urinary incontinence .
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