Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS) | Dr. S K Palash
Do you often feel the urge to rush to the bathroom? Wake up multiple times at night to urinate? Or feel that your bladder never empties completely?
These could be signs of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS) – a common but frequently overlooked group of urinary problems that can significantly affect your quality of life.
As a Consultant Urologist & Andrologist in Baner, Pune, Dr. S K Palash regularly helps men and women manage LUTS through accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans.
What are Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS)?
LUTS is a broad term referring to a variety of symptoms involving the bladder, urethra, or prostate. These symptoms are categorized into three main types:
Storage symptoms:
Frequent urination
Urgency (sudden, strong urge to urinate)
Nighttime urination (nocturia)
Urinary incontinence
Voiding symptoms:
Weak or interrupted stream
Straining to pass urine
Feeling of incomplete emptying
Post-void symptoms:
Dribbling after urination
Sensation of residual urine in the bladder
What Causes LUTS?
LUTS can result from a variety of underlying conditions. Common causes include:
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) – Especially in men over 50
No—both men and women can experience LUTS, although the causes can differ. In women, factors like recurrent UTIs, bladder dysfunction, or pelvic floor weakness (often after childbirth) can lead to these symptoms.
How Are LUTS Diagnosed?
Diagnosing the root cause of LUTS requires a thorough and individualized evaluation, which may include:
Detailed medical history and physical examination
Urine tests to check for infection or blood
Ultrasound of the bladder and kidneys
Uroflowmetry – to measure the flow of urine
Post-void residual (PVR) scan – to assess bladder emptying
Cystoscopy or urodynamic studies – in complex or unresolved cases
At Dr. S K Palash’s clinic in Baner, Pune, advanced diagnostic tools are used to ensure accurate and timely diagnosis.
What are the Treatment Options for LUTS?
Treatment is based on the underlying cause and severity of symptoms. Options may include:
1. Lifestyle Modifications
Timed fluid intake
Reducing caffeine/alcohol
Bladder training exercises
2. Medications
Alpha-blockers to relax the prostate and bladder neck
Anticholinergics or mirabegron for overactive bladder
5-alpha-reductase inhibitors for BPH-related symptoms
3. Minimally Invasive Procedures or Surgery
For cases involving BPH, urethral strictures, stones, or bladder tumors, endoscopic or laser-based surgical options are available when conservative treatment fails.
Can LUTS Affect My Daily Life?
Absolutely. Persistent LUTS can:
Interrupt sleep
Cause embarrassment or anxiety in social settings
Impact work productivity
Limit travel or leisure activities
Fortunately, early evaluation and proper treatment can dramatically improve your quality of life.
Is Surgery Always Required?
Not necessarily. Many patients experience significant relief with lifestyle changes and medication alone. Surgery is typically considered only if non-surgical treatments are ineffective or if complications like urinary retention occur.
BPH vs. Prostate Cancer – What’s the Difference?
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate and a common cause of LUTS in older men.
While prostate cancer can sometimes present with similar symptoms, they are distinct conditions. Testing like PSA levels, prostate exams, or a biopsy may be done to rule out cancer when needed.
When Should You See a Urologist?
You should consult a urologist if you notice:
Increased frequency or urgency to urinate
Nighttime urination disrupting your sleep
A weak or hesitant urine stream
Dribbling or a sense of incomplete emptying
Pain or burning during urination
Don’t ignore these symptoms. Early diagnosis leads to better treatment outcomes.
Concerned About LUTS? Let’s Talk.
Urinary problems may be common—but they are not normal. If you or a loved one is silently suffering, it’s time to seek expert help.
Dr. S K Palash, Consultant Urologist & Andrologist in Baner, Pune, offers compassionate and comprehensive care tailored to your unique needs.
Disclaimer: The information provided here should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. The information is provided solely for educational purpose and should not be considered a substitute for medical advice.
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