Assessment and management of lower urinary tract symptoms in men

Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) is a broad term that covers a range of urinary issues, which are often categorised as storage and voiding symptoms. Storage symptoms include increased frequency, nocturia, urgency and urge incontinence, while voiding symptoms include hesitancy, suboptimal flow, dribbling and incomplete emptying. In men, the most common causes of LUTS are benign prostatic hyperplasia (prostate enlargement) and overactive bladder. This article provides an overview of the anatomy of the prostate and outlines the assessment process for men presenting with LUTS. It also explains the recommended lifestyle modifications, medicines and surgical interventions available to male patients who are experiencing these symptoms.