Urinary symptoms can affect anyone at any age. But did you know lifestyle changes are often the first-line treatment (depending on the condition and cause)?

To that end, we asked one of our physician assistants, Jennifer Sweetman, to share her go-to advice for patients. These everyday habits are worth trying to see if they improve your urinary symptoms. 

And, of course, if these changes don't help, make an appointment with Greater Boston Urology to sort out what's going on.

Like all content on our site, the following is meant to be educational, not medical advice. Always consult a doctor about your specific situation.

1. Limit caffeine.

Listen, we get it. Reducing your morning java or afternoon soda might make you feel jittery (or perhaps a little grumpy). But hear us out. Caffeine is a bladder irritant and a diuretic, the perfect combination for causing urinary frequency. 

If you don't feel you can eliminate caffeine from your diet, try reducing your intake. Experiment with alternatives, like Dandy Blend, which has the consistency and taste of instant coffee but without the caffeine or acidity.

2. Move your bowels regularly. 

What does pooping have to do with peeing? Well, constipation can cause several symptoms, including urinary urgency and even incontinence. Maintaining a bowel regimen will help things run smoothly in more ways than one. 

Need some help with "going" regularly? Add more soluble and insoluble fiber to your diet. Examples of soluble fiber include fruits (especially apples, bananas, and berries), oatmeal, and soy milk. Examples of insoluble fiber include whole grains, legumes, nuts and seeds, and veggies (especially cruciferous ones like broccoli). 

When adding fiber to your diet, do it slowly to avoid sending things in the opposite direction. Drink plenty of water as well. 

Feeling constipated? Check out this DIY belly massage to help get things going. And make sure you know how to poop correctly.

3. Don't smoke. 

If you need more reasons to give up cigarettes (and other tobacco products), consider this: Smoking is the number one cause of bladder cancer. Quit now, and your bladder will thank you (in addition to your lungs and other essential organs).

4. Stop fluids before bedtime. 

Although it seems self-explanatory, limiting fluids for about two hours before bedtime will help you get an uninterrupted night's sleep. 

By the way, many people think having to get up to pee multiple times a night is a normal part of aging. While it is common, it's never normal. Learn more about nocturia. 

5. Limit bladder irritants.

Spicy or acidic foods, bubbly drinks, caffeine, and alcohol can all irritate your bladder, causing episodes of increased urgency and frequency.

Again, we're not saying you must eliminate all these things from your diet. However, being mindful of your triggers and reducing your intake could help alleviate symptoms. 

6. Stay hydrated. 

Increasing your water intake can greatly reduce the risk of urinary tract infections and kidney stones. Dehydration is the leading cause of kidney stones. 

Learn additional ways to reduce your risk.

7. Check labels. 

Diets high in sodium and oxalate (found in foods like red meat, green leafy vegetables, dark chocolate, soda, and nuts) can lead to kidney stones over time. 

Check out this article with Dr. Justin Gould on how to approach eating these foods if you're at risk for developing calcium oxalate stones, which are the most common kind. 

Don't worry: We're not necessarily suggesting you stop eating these foods completely. Always consult your doctor about what's best for you.

8. Get a sleep study (if needed). 

If you snore at night, your quality of sleep is probably poor. Poor sleep often leads to increased trips to the bathroom. A sleep study could help you get to the root issue and help you sleep more soundly, giving your bladder a break.  

9. Men: get blood work annually. 

Men often pee more as they get older for a variety of reasons (none of which are normal, even though many are common). For example, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) can cause urinary symptoms. But it's important to rule out other things as well, like prostate cancer.

The PSA is a blood test that your doctor should order starting around age 55 (or earlier if there is a family history) to screen for prostate cancer. Early detection means early treatment and better outcomes. 

10. Pay attention to the color of your pee.

If your urine appears red or pink, you have new abdominal or flank pain, or your urinary patterns change suddenly, it's time to see your doctor. It's always better to be safe than sorry. 

Dealing with urinary issues? Let us help.

Greater Boston Urology has multiple convenient locations, including the Cape, South Shore, MetroWest, and Central Mass. Request an appointment today.