Dehydration occurs when your body loses more fluid than you take in. When the normal water content of your body is reduced, it upsets the balance of minerals (salts and sugar) in your body, which affects the way it functions.
Brushing and cleaning your teeth regularly will often clear mild gum disease. If it’s more severe, try antispetic mouthwash to kill germs and see your GP or dentist.
For elderly men with lower urinary tract symptoms, sitting when urinating empties the bladder much more, reducing the unwanted symptoms of an enlarged prostate.
There’s evidence to suggest that a diet high in protein and vegetables and low in red meat and fat may reduce your risk of developing an enlarged prostate.
If your prostate gland is enlarged, you may be advised to avoid drinking before bed, reduce or stop drinking alcohol and caffeine, exercise regularly, or join a support group.
The following increase your risk of developing marked plaque-associated gum disease: poor oral hygiene when a lot of plaque and large numbers of bacteria build up; smoking (which may alter your resistance to gum infection); having a poor immune system – if you have an illness which makes your immune system less effective; if you have diabetes.
A build-up of plaque and tartar can lead to inflamed and infected gums. Regular tooth brushing and cleaning between teeth (eg, by flossing) can usually prevent gum disease.
The treatment for an enlarged prostate gland will depend on how severe your symptoms are – from mild lifestyle changes, to medication, to surgery if severe.
Benign prostate enlargement is a condition associated with ageing and is common in men over 50 years of age. Around 4 out of 10 men (40%) over 50, and 3 out of 4 men (75%) in their 70s have urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate.
Tartar is hardened calcified plaque. It sticks firmly to teeth. Generally, it can only be removed by a dentist or dental hygienist, with special instruments.