Is There a Connection Between Caffeine and Prostate Problems?

Many males suffer from an enlarged prostate gland, and instances increase with age. As the prostate increases in size, it often presses on the urethra to cause bladder and urination problems. Studies have shown that caffeine intake can aggravate the symptoms of an enlarged prostate.

Inability to Urinate

• On Mother Nature.com, Dr. Durwood Neal, urologist at the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston says caffeine in any form can tighten the neck of the bladder and make it difficult to pass urine. Because caffeine can cause the prostate to constrict, it makes it harder to urinate.

Irritation

• Because caffeine travels easily to the prostate, it can cause irritation. Irritation can include pain, uncomfortable contractions, and general malaise.

Incontinence

• Caffeine acts as a diuretic, which means it can also lead to incontinence among those with an enlarged prostate or other prostate problems.

Urgency

• Because caffeine can act as a diuretic, it can cause patients with an enlarged prostate to experience more frequent urges to urinate.

Increased Urination

• Caffeine can cause those with prostate problems to urinate more often, which can be uncomfortable and can aggravate incontinence, irritation, or painful urination.