Take Charge of Your Urinary Health

Summary Paragraph

Men often adapt to urinary symptoms instead of addressing them, not realizing effective treatment options are available.  Learn the common causes of urinary problems and the advanced care options designed to help men feel more comfortable and confident.

Key Takeaways

• Urinary symptoms like weak stream, urgency or incomplete emptying should not be ignored, as they may indicate treatable conditions.
• Common causes include enlarged prostate (BPH), urethral strictures, bladder muscle weakness and nerve-related conditions.
• Early evaluation allows access to minimally invasive procedures and effective surgical options with better long-term outcomes.

Take Charge of Your Urinary Health

For many men, urinary problems are easy to dismiss or ignore. Slower flow, waking up at night to use the bathroom or feeling like you can’t completely empty your bladder may seem like simple annoyances. But these symptoms can signal conditions that deserve attention – especially as men age.

During Men’s Health Month in June, St. Elizabeth is raising awareness about common issues that affect urinary flow and bladder function, along with the advanced surgical options that can help men get back to living comfortably and confidently.

Why Men Experience Urinary Retention or Weak Flow

Urinary retention occurs when the bladder doesn’t empty fully or at all. This can develop suddenly or gradually and is often linked to:

• Enlarged prostate (BPH) – the most common cause in men over 50.
• Urethral strictures – scar tissue that narrows the urinary channel.
• Bladder muscle weakness.
• Nerve-related conditions, such as diabetes or spinal problems.
• Infections or inflammation.

Dr. Christopher Cost, a Urologist at St. Elizabeth, says men sometimes overlook the early signs. “A change in urinary flow may feel like an inconvenience at first, but it can affect quality of life and even lead to complications if untreated,” he says. “We want men to know these issues are common and highly treatable.”

Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore

Men experiencing urinary issues often report:

• A weak or slow stream.
• Difficulty starting urination.
• A feeling of incomplete bladder emptying.
• Frequent trips to the bathroom, especially overnight.
• Leaking or dribbling.
• Sudden urges that are hard to control.
• Blood seen in urine.

“These symptoms are something we talk about every day in our clinic,” Dr. Cost says. “You don’t have to just live with them. We can identify the cause and create a plan that helps you feel better.”

Advanced Treatment and Surgical Options at St. Elizabeth

St. Elizabeth offers a full range of urologic procedures, from minimally invasive outpatient treatments to advanced surgical care. Depending on the cause, treatments may include:

1. Minimally Invasive BPH Procedures

Options such as UroLift or laser therapy open the urinary channel without major surgery. Many men return home the same day and experience quick improvements.

2. Surgical Options for Enlarged Prostate

Procedures like Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) remain highly effective for men with more advanced symptoms.

3. Urethral Stricture Repair

For men whose symptoms stem from scar tissue, urethroplasty or endoscopic procedures can restore normal urinary flow.

4. Treatment for Bladder Dysfunction

In some cases, the issue isn’t blockage but the bladder itself. Treatments can help retrain bladder muscles or support nerve communication.

“Once we understand the cause, we can match the patient with the right solution,” Dr. Cost says. “Our goal is to provide relief that is long-lasting, safe and tailored to each individual.”

Why Early Action Matters

Untreated urinary issues can lead to:

• Bladder infections.
• Kidney damage.
• Sudden urinary retention that requires emergency care.
• Progressive bladder dysfunction.

Early evaluation allows for more treatment options and better outcomes.

Dr. Cost encourages men to prioritize their health: “Urinary symptoms are common, but they are not something you have to accept. Talk to us. We have solutions that can greatly improve your daily life.”

Take the First Step Today

If you or a loved one is experiencing urinary flow or bladder symptoms, St. Elizabeth is here to help. Our team provides compassionate, expert care with the latest surgical and nonsurgical treatments. Learn more about urologic surgery options by visiting our website.

Medically Reviewed by Christopher Cost, MD on 4/23/26.