Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), commonly referred to as prostate enlargement, is a prevalent condition among aging men. As the prostate gland enlarges, it can cause various urinary symptoms and impact quality of life. Understanding BPH, its symptoms, causes, and available treatment options is crucial for effective management. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the intricacies of BPH and explore strategies for addressing this common prostate condition. At men’s clinics we provide all the advise and treatment for all these problems, book your free checkup today

What is benign prostatic hyperplasia?

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a condition in which your prostate grows in size.

Your prostate is a gland that rests below your bladder and in front of your rectum. It’s about the size of a walnut, and it surrounds part of your urethra.

Your urethra is a tube that carries urine (pee) and sperm (ejaculate) out of your body.

If your prostate grows in size, it can prevent pee and ejaculate from passing through your urethra.

BPH isn’t cancerous. However, symptoms of BPH may indicate more serious conditions, including prostate cancer.

Does having benign prostatic hyperplasia increase the risk of prostate cancer?

Research shows that having BPH doesn’t increase your risk of developing prostate cancer. However, BPH and prostate cancer have similar symptoms. If you have BPH, you may have undetected prostate cancer at the same time.

To help detect prostate cancer in its early stages, every person with a prostate should get a prostate screening every year between the ages of 55 and 69. You have an increased risk of getting prostate cancer if you’re Black or have a family history of prostate cancer. If you have an increased risk of prostate cancer, you should start getting prostate screenings at age 40.

Who does benign prostatic hyperplasia affect?

BPH is the most common prostate problem in people assigned male at birth (AMAB). Almost all people with a prostate will develop some enlargement in their prostates as they grow older.

How common is benign prostatic hyperplasia?

Benign prostatic hyperplasia is common.

By age 60, about 50% of people with a prostate will have some signs of BPH. By age 85, about 90% will have signs of the condition.

About half of all people with BPH will develop symptoms that require treatment.

What happens if you leave an enlarged prostate untreated?

Without treatment, BPH can cause further blockage in your urethra, and your symptoms may worsen. It may also cause:

• Urinary tract infection (UTI).
• Bladder stones.
• Blood in your pee (hematuria).
• Kidney damage due to pee backflow from your bladder up to your kidney. The pee backflow increases pressure on your kidney.

Symptoms of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

1. Urinary Symptoms: BPH often manifests through changes in urinary habits, including:
   • Increased frequency of urination, especially at night (nocturia).
   • Difficulty initiating urination or maintaining a steady stream.
   • Weak urine stream or dribbling after urination.
   • Sensation of incomplete bladder emptying.
   • Urgency or sudden urge to urinate.
2. Urinary Retention: In severe cases of BPH, urinary retention may occur, leading to the inability to empty the bladder completely.
3. Bladder Stones: Prostate enlargement can obstruct urine flow, increasing the risk of bladder stone formation and related complications.

Causes of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

1. Hormonal Changes: Aging is a primary factor in the development of BPH, as changes in hormone levels, particularly dihydrotestosterone (DHT), contribute to prostate growth.
2. Cellular Growth: The prostate gland undergoes benign growth over time, leading to enlargement and compression of the urethra, causing urinary symptoms.
3. Family History: Genetic factors may predispose individuals to BPH, with a family history of prostate problems increasing the likelihood of developing the condition.

What type of doctor treats benign prostatic hyperplasia?

If your healthcare provider suspects you have BPH, they may refer you to a urologist. A urologist is a doctor who specializes in treating conditions that affect your urinary system.

Treatment Options for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

1. Medications: Alpha-blockers and 5-alpha reductase inhibitors are commonly prescribed to alleviate urinary symptoms and reduce prostate size.
2. Minimally Invasive Procedures: Procedures such as transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), laser therapy, and prostate artery embolization (PAE) offer effective options for reducing prostate size and improving urinary function.
3. Surgical Intervention: In cases of severe or refractory symptoms, surgical procedures such as prostatectomy may be necessary to remove part or all of the prostate gland.

4. Surgery

   Several different types of surgery can remove prostate tissue that blocks your urethra. These include:

   • Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). Your urologist inserts a special instrument (resectoscope) through your urethra that allows them to see and remove prostate tissue.
   • Transurethral incision of the prostate (TUIP). Your urologist makes two small incisions in your prostate and where your urethra and bladder join (bladder neck) to widen your urethra and improve urine flow.
   • Transurethral electrovaporization. Your urologist uses an electrode to heat your prostate tissue. This turns the tissue cells in the enlarged areas of your prostate into steam.
   • GreenLight™ laser treatment. Your urologist uses a special laser to evaporate your enlarged prostate tissue. Other names for GreenLight laser treatment include photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP) and prostate photovaporization.
   • Aquablation®. Your urologist uses precise, high-pressure jets of water to remove prostate tissue.

   After a surgical procedure, you should be able to resume normal activities within a few days or a week.

Lifestyle Modifications

1. Healthy Diet: Consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may support prostate health and alleviate symptoms of BPH.
2. Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity can help maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of urinary symptoms associated with BPH.
3. Limiting Fluid Intake: Limiting fluid intake before bedtime can help minimize nighttime urinary frequency and improve sleep quality.

Diagnosis and Tests

FAQs about Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

1. Is BPH a form of prostate cancer?

No, BPH is a non-cancerous condition characterized by benign growth of the prostate gland. However, some symptoms of BPH may overlap with those of prostate cancer, highlighting the importance of proper diagnosis and evaluation.

2. Can lifestyle changes alleviate symptoms of BPH?

Yes, lifestyle modifications such as maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, limiting fluid intake before bedtime, and avoiding caffeine and alcohol may help alleviate symptoms of BPH and improve overall prostate health.

3. At what age does BPH typically occur?

BPH is more common in older men, typically occurring after the age of 50. However, symptoms of BPH can vary among individuals, and some men may experience symptoms earlier in life.

Conclusion

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition that affects many men as they age. By understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for BPH, individuals can take proactive steps to manage their prostate health effectively. Whether it’s through medication, minimally invasive procedures, lifestyle modifications, or surgical intervention, various approaches are available to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life for those living with BPH. If you’re experiencing symptoms suggestive of BPH, don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and personalized treatment. Read More…