Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition resulting from the normal process of aging and cannot be prevented.
What is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia?
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. It’s normal for the prostate to grow throughout a man's life. However, when the prostate grows large enough to press on the urethra it can block the flow of urine. And there is often an increase in smooth muscle tone in the prostate and bladder neck leading to constriction of the bladder outlet, which also contributes to blocked urine flow.
What are the signs and symptoms of BPH?
The most common symptom of BPH is trouble urinating. There are other signs and symptoms to look for, including:
- A need to urinate often, with little warning
- A feeling like the bladder has not been completely emptied
- A sensation of delay or hesitation when starting to urinate
- Stopping and starting several times
- Dribbling
- A need to push or strain to begin urination
- A weak flow
Urinary symptoms like those above can often indicate BPH but may also indicate other conditions. That’s why it’s important to see a doctor. The doctor can perform simple tests to evaluate the condition and help rule out other problems such as prostatitis (inflammation) or prostate cancer.
How is BPH diagnosed?
If BPH is suspected, several tests can be used to find out for certain. These tests include:
- A urine sample to look for blood and signs of infection
- A blood test to check for a protein released by the prostate (PSA)
- A physical examination to assess the condition of the prostate
- A questionnaire to be completed by the patient to determine the severity of urinary discomfort
What are the management options for BPH?
BPH requires treatment if the symptoms are bothersome or if the urinary tract is seriously affected.
There are several common management options:
- Watchful waiting: If the person is not bothered by the symptoms they, along with their doctor, can monitor the condition regularly to see if thecon dition worsens.
- Drug therapy: The doctor will choose an appropriate medication specific to the patient's needs.
- Surgery: The most common type for BPH is transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), which is effective at relieving symptoms quickly.
References available upon request.
Consult your doctor for management options
