How Does Alcohol Affect an Enlarged Prostate?

Home > How Does Alcohol Affect an Enlarged Prostate?

The impact of alcohol on BPH, or an enlarged prostate, has been a subject of increasing interest in the world of men’s health. The relationship between alcohol consumption and the well-being of the prostate raises important questions. Does alcohol actually have an effect on an enlarged prostate? If so, is it positive or negative?

Alcohol is a Diuretic

Diuretics are medicines that help reduce fluid buildup in the body. They help the kidneys remove salt and water through the urine. This reduces the amount of fluid flowing through your veins and arteries, which in turn, lowers your blood pressure.

Alcohol is a diuretic, which means that it increases urination. This can be an issue for men with an enlarged prostate suffering from lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). It could cause more frequent urination, or even a weak urine stream.

Alcohol is Inflammatory

BPH is when the prostate gland enlarges, or in other words, inflames. Alcohol is inflammatory in its effects. This means that it worsens the inflammation that is already present in the prostate cells. This blocks the flow of urine even more, thus worsening symptoms such as urinary frequency and urgency.

Alcohol is Dehydrating

Not only does alcohol increase urine production, but it also leads to dehydration. When you consume alcohol, it inhibits the release of an antidiuretic hormone called vasopressin. This hormone normally helps your kidneys reabsorb water, but its release is inhibited, more water is excreted through urine.

Alcohol Affects Our Bladder Muscles

We know that when we consume alcohol, it affects our muscles – we feel sluggish, like our arms and legs cannot move properly. This extends to our bladder muscles, too.

In order to store urine, the muscles in the bladder must relax, and in order to release urine, they must contract. However, the presence of alcohol makes it difficult for the muscles in the bladder to relax, thus worsening urinary symptoms, such as frequent urination.

Alcohol - Good or Bad for the Bladder?

So, what does this all mean? Well, the evidence shows that there is a clear link between alcohol and the worsening of symptoms of an enlarged prostate, specifically the urinary symptoms. If you are suffering from an enlarged prostate, it is recommended to reduce your intake of alcohol.

Treatments for an Enlarged Prostate at BPH Canada

If you are experiencing symptoms of an enlarged prostate, BPH Canada is here to help. We offer a wide range of treatment options, including minimally invasive therapies (MIST), surgery, and medication. Book a consultation with us today for symptom relief.