GP Dr Roger Henderson outlines the features, causes and management strategies for LUTS in men and explains how nurses in general practice and the community can support men living with this common problem.
Module summary
Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) are a common clinical problem in men and include urinary complaints related to bladder storage, voiding and post-micturition phases.
This module provides an overview of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in men, a common condition that can significantly affect quality of life. It explores the epidemiology, risk factors, and underlying causes of LUTS, including benign prostatic enlargement and bladder dysfunction.
The module describes the different types of symptoms, such as storage, voiding and post-micturition symptoms, and explains how these may present in clinical practice. It also outlines the key steps involved in clinical assessment, including history, examination and appropriate investigations. Finally, the module reviews current management approaches, including lifestyle advice, pharmacological treatment and indications for specialist referral or surgical intervention.
Learning objectives
This module will extend your knowledge of LUTs in men including how to:
- Define lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in men and explain their classification into storage, voiding and post-micturition symptoms.
- Describe the epidemiology and risk factors associated with LUTS in men, including the influence of ageing, hormonal factors, metabolic conditions and lifestyle.
- Identify the common underlying causes of LUTS, particularly benign prostatic enlargement, bladder dysfunction, infection and neurological disorders.
- Recognise the key clinical features and potential complications of LUTS, including urinary retention, infection and reduced quality of life.
- Perform an appropriate clinical assessment, including focused history taking, physical examination, and selection of relevant initial investigations.
- Outline evidence-based management strategies for LUTS, including lifestyle modifications, pharmacological treatments and indications for specialist referral or surgical intervention.
Author: Dr Roger Henderson, GP and GP educator in Scotland
Date published: 10.04.26
Log in to access the full CPD module and track your progress toward certification.