Symptoms
Especially at night (nocturia)
A weak stream or hesitation when starting to urinate.
Leakage of urine after finishing urination.
A sudden, strong need to urinate.
Feelinglike your bladder isn’t fully empty after you urinate.
The urine stream is often slow or interrupted.
Causes
BPH is part of the natural aging process, linked to changes in hormone levels. As men get older, the prostate gland, located just below the bladder, grows larger, which can obstruct the flow of urine through the urethra.
Familial factors: family history of similar enlargement
Risk Factors
More common in men over 50.
Higher risk if your father or brothers had BPH.
Obesity, lack of exercise, and a high-fat diet can increase the risk.
Diabetes and heart disease may also play a role.
Investigations
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Get an overview of the situation, its progression and surrounding factors.
The doctor inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to feel the size and shape of the prostate.
PSA Blood Test: Measuring Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) levels in the blood can help rule out prostate cancer.
Urine Flow Test: Measuring the flow rate of urine to check for obstruction.
Ultrasound: Using sound waves to create images of the prostate and bladder.
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Treatment
Alpha-Blockers: Relax the muscles of the bladder neck and prostate, making it easier to urinate.
5-Alpha-Reductase Inhibitors: Reduce the size of the prostate by blocking the hormone responsible for prostate growth.
Reducing fluid intake before bedtime, avoiding caffeine and alcohol, and maintaining a healthy weight.
Transurethral Microwave Therapy (TUMT) uses micro-waves to shrink the prostate.
Transurethral Needle Ablation (TUNA) uses radiofrequency energy to reduce prostate tissue.
Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) is a procedure involving the insertion of a scope through the urethra to remove excess prostate tissue.
Holmium Laser Prostate Surgery (HoLEP) uses laser energy to vaporize excess prostate tissue. Especially indicated for extremely large prostates or patients who cannot temporarily stop taking blood thinners.
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