What to record
Note the time, type and approximate amount of each drink, and the time and measured volume of urine where possible. Urgency, leakage and what was happening at the time can be included. Bedtime and waking time are useful when assessing night-time symptoms. [1]
How many days?
EAU guidance recommends at least three days of recording when assessing male lower urinary tract symptoms. Confirm the requested duration and measurement method using the clinic’s form. Representative days are more useful than recording only the best or worst day. [1]
A simple example
A drink entry could read “08:00, one glass of water, approximately 200 mL”. A urine entry can include the time, measured volume and whether urgency occurred. These are recording examples, not targets for drinking or urination. If a measurement was missed, label it as unmeasured instead of presenting a guessed value as exact.
Should habits be changed during recording?
The first aim is to observe the usual pattern. Drinking less to improve the record or deliberately holding urine for a long time makes it less representative. Briefly note a medicine change, journey or unusual routine if it affects the day. Continue following any individual health instructions already provided.
How the diary is used
The clinician compares drinks, symptoms, day and night volumes and frequency. A diary alone cannot diagnose a prostate condition. A later record may help assess change if appropriate. Because it contains personal health information, keep it securely and share it with the relevant healthcare team. The value lies in a consistent account of daily experience, not in achieving particular numbers. [1, 2]
References
- EAU: Management of Non-neurogenic Male LUTS, Diagnostic Evaluation
- NIDDK: Enlarged Prostate (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia)
This article provides general health information. Consult your clinician for individual diagnosis and treatment decisions, and your pharmacist for questions about medicine use.
Published by Aymed İlaç · 17 October 2026