How Optimising Urinary Symptoms Can Lead to Better Health in Older Men

Alastair Henderson Uncategorized

  • Modern Management of Bladder Outflow Obstruction (BOO) in Men
  • Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), also known as bladder outflow obstruction (BOO), is common in men over 50
  • Typical urinary symptoms include:
    • Weak or slow urinary stream
    • Nocturia (night-time urination)
    • Hesitancy when starting urination
    • Urgency
    • Sensation of incomplete bladder emptying
  • If left untreated, BOO may lead to:
    • Poor sleep and daytime fatigue
    • Increased falls risk in older adults
    • Urinary retention
    • Recurrent urinary tract infections
    • Reduced quality of life
  • Some men also present with additional concerns requiring assessment, such as:
    • Raised PSA levels
    • Worries about prostate cancer
    • Visible blood in the urine
  • Personalised, Modern Approach to Care
  • Comprehensive assessment and evidence-based treatment planning
  • Access to both non-invasive and surgical treatment options
  • Care tailored to individual symptoms, prostate size, and patient preference
  • Onsite diagnostics at Nuffield Health Tunbridge Wells, including:
    • MRI prostate imaging
    • Non-Invasive Flow testing
    • Endoscopic (camera) assessment (where needed)
  • A Full Range of Treatment Options – What Has Changed in 2025
  • Medical Therapy
  • First-line treatments may include:
    • Alpha-blockers
    • 5-alpha reductase inhibitors
  • Newer combination approaches may include:
    • Tadalafil
    • Overactive bladder medications
  • Improved management of nocturnal polyuria using desmopressin, particularly beneficial for elderly patients
  • Minimally Invasive Surgical Options
  • UroLift® System
  • Day-case procedure
  • No cutting or heating of prostate tissue
  • Preserves continence and sexual function
  • Rapid recovery and return to normal activities
  • Suitable for:
    • Younger men
    • Older or frail patients
    • Those wishing to avoid traditional surgery
  • Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP)
  • Ideal for men with:
    • Larger prostates
    • Catheter dependence
  • Key benefits:
    • Highly effective long-term symptom relief
    • Minimal bleeding
    • Low retreatment rate
    • Suitable for patients on anticoagulation
  • Significantly reduces the need for long-term catheterisation
  • Recent advances and publications from Mr Henderson and his clinical team mean:
    • Up to 50% of HoLEP patients can now be discharged as day-surgery cases
  • Specialist Urology Care in Tunbridge Wells
  • Direct GP and clinician referrals are possible and patients can book direct via the contact page or the Nuffield Health Website
  • Informal professional discussions available
  • Early specialist involvement can:
    • Prevent repeated GP visits
    • Reduce emergency admissions
    • Shorten duration of patient discomfort