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Urinary Incontinence in Men: Causes, Symptoms, and When to See a Doctor

Alan Lucks | MD

Medically reviewed by Alan Lucks | MD, Alan Lucks MDPC Private Practice - New York on May 12th, 2023.

Key Takeaways

  • Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) affects 50% of men over 50 and 90% over 80, causing bladder outlet obstruction that leads to overflow incontinence and incomplete emptying.

  • Stress incontinence occurs when weakened pelvic floor muscles can't support the bladder during physical activities—this affects 2-10% of men and often develops after prostate surgery.

  • Pelvic floor muscle exercises (Kegels) performed 3 times daily with 10-15 contractions held for 3-5 seconds can improve symptoms by 70% within 8-12 weeks.

  • Post-prostatectomy incontinence affects 5-15% of men long-term, with recovery typically occurring within 6-12 months as tissues heal and muscle strength returns.

  • Anticholinergic medications like oxybutynin can reduce urge incontinence episodes by 60-80%, but may cause dry mouth and constipation in elderly patients.

Urinary incontinence is a condition where you have trouble controlling when urine comes out of your body. It can be a frustrating and embarrassing problem, but understanding what's causing it can help you find ways to treat and cope with it.

How Urinary Incontinence Happens

Normally, urine moves from your kidneys to your bladder through tubes called ureters. Your bladder stores the urine until your brain receives a signal that it's full. Then, the urine leaves your body through a tube called the urethra. Urinary incontinence occurs when there's a problem with this process, such as:

  • Your bladder squeezes too hard or at the wrong time

  • The muscles around your urethra don't work properly

  • Your bladder doesn't empty completely and gets too full

  • Something is blocking your urethra

  • Your urinary tract didn't form correctly

Common Causes of Urinary Incontinence in Men

Several health and lifestyle factors can contribute to urinary incontinence in men, including:

Prostate Problems

An enlarged prostate due to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or prostate cancer can block the urethra and make it difficult for the bladder to empty completely. Prostate cancer treatments, such as radiation or surgery, can also damage the nerves that control the bladder.

Certain Diseases

Diseases that can damage the nerves responsible for bladder control include:

  • Multiple sclerosis

  • Diabetes

  • Stroke

  • Alzheimer's disease

  • Parkinson's disease

Surgery

Major bowel surgery, lower back surgery, and prostate surgery can cause urinary incontinence by damaging the nerves in the urinary tract.

Urinary Incontinence in Men: Causes, Symptoms, and When to See a Doctor

Aging

As men age, the bladder loses some of its tone and strength, which can lead to leaks.

Obesity and Lack of Exercise

Excess weight puts added pressure on the bladder, making it harder to hold urine for long periods. Lack of physical activity can also contribute to this problem.

Chronic Coughing

Frequent coughing due to illness or allergies can put stress on the bladder and pelvic floor muscles, leading to leaks if these muscles are weak.

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

Bacterial infections in the urinary tract can irritate the bladder and cause incontinence.

Constipation

Hard or backed-up stool can press on the nerves of the urinary system, causing leaks.

It's important to note that while alcohol and certain medications like diuretics, antidepressants, sedatives, narcotics, and over-the-counter cold and diet medicines don't directly cause urinary incontinence, they can worsen symptoms.

When to See a Doctor

If you experience any of the following symptoms, it's time to consult with your doctor:

  • Frequent and sudden urges to urinate

  • Leaking urine when sneezing, coughing, or standing up

  • Random urine leaks not associated with coughing or sneezing

  • Feeling like your bladder isn't completely empty after urinating

  • Weak urine stream

  • Straining during urination

  • Pain while urinating

  • Pressure in the lower abdomen

  • When it severely affects your quality of life

Your doctor can help determine the cause of your urinary incontinence and recommend appropriate treatment options. Don't hesitate to seek help – with proper care, you can manage this condition and improve your quality of life.

For more information on urinary incontinence, visit:

The Bottom Line

Most male incontinence stems from prostate problems or weakened pelvic muscles and improves significantly with targeted exercises, medications, or minor procedures. Early intervention prevents worsening and improves quality of life faster than waiting. If you're experiencing leaking, urgency, or incomplete emptying, Doctronic can help you understand your symptoms and treatment options.

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