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Symptoms of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
The need to urinate often, especially at night, is a common symptom associated with BPH.
Hesitation, straining, or delay before urine flow begins, commonly caused by obstruction from enlarged prostate tissue.
Persistent leakage of small amounts of urine after completing urination, leaving the bladder feeling incompletely emptied.
A sudden, overwhelming need to urinate immediately, sometimes difficult to control or delay without leakage.
The sensation that the bladder has not fully emptied, even after passing a significant volume of urine.
A urine stream that is noticeably weak, slow, or interrupted, requiring longer effort to completely void.
Causes of Enlarged Prostate
Benign prostatic hyperplasia is a natural aspect of aging, closely linked to hormonal changes in men. The prostate gland, located below the bladder and surrounding the urethra, gradually grows larger; enlarged prostate tissue can obstruct urine flow. Family history is also significant; having close relatives with BPH increases risk.
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 for BPH Diagnosis
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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 Options for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
Managing BPH usually begins with the least invasive strategies and progresses only if symptoms persist or worsen. Some patients experience improvements by starting with simple lifestyle changes. From there, medications that can ease discomfort and improve urine flow are explored.
If these approaches don’t provide enough relief, minimally invasive procedures may be recommended. For more severe cases, surgical options like TURP or HoLEP are available, offering long-term improvement when other treatments are not effective.
Reducing fluid intake before bedtime, avoiding caffeine and alcohol, and maintaining a healthy weight.
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.
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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