Talk to every male patient over the age of 50 about urinary function. Utilize questionnaires, such as the International Prostate Symptom Score to evaluate the patient's perception of symptom severity and quality of life. Rule out potential causes of lower urinary tract symptoms with a thorough medical history, focused physical exam (including digital rectal examination and neurological assessments), and appropriate laboratory evaluations. When choosing treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia, remember that quality of life is generally more important than symptom severity.