ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Lower urinary tract symptoms

Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) are when you have problems going to the bathroom. This means you might have a hard time peeing or you might pee more often than usual.

There are two kinds of LUTS: obstructive and irritative. Obstructive LUTS mean that you have trouble starting to pee or you can't empty your bladder completely. Irritative LUTS mean that you have to go to the bathroom a lot or you feel like you have to go even if you just went.

There are many different causes of LUTS. Sometimes, it can be because you have an infection. Other times, it can be because you have a problem with your bladder or your prostate.

To figure out why you have LUTS, your doctor might ask you questions about your symptoms. They might also do some tests, like check your urine to see if you have an infection or do an ultrasound to look at your bladder.

There are many different ways to treat LUTS, depending on what is causing it. Sometimes, it might mean taking medicine or doing physical therapy. Other times, it might require surgery.

It's important to see a doctor if you have LUTS because it can be a sign of a more serious problem. With the right treatment, you can feel much better and go back to your normal activities!