Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Benign prostatic hyperplasia, commonly known as BPH, is a non-cancerous condition that can affect the prostate gland in men. The prostate is a small gland located below the bladder. It surrounds the urethra, which is the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body.
In men with BPH, the prostate gland gradually grows larger over time, due to an overgrowth of normal prostate cells. As the prostate gets bigger, it can squeeze the urethra, leading to various urinary problems.
This is where the prostate gland gradually enlarges over time. This enlargement is caused by an overgrowth of normal prostate cells. As the prostate grows, it can squeeze the urethra, leading to various urinary problems.
Symptoms
The symptoms of BPH can vary but often include:
- Frequent urination: You may find yourself needing to urinate more often than before,
including during the night. - Urgency: There might be a sudden and strong urge to urinate that is hard to control.
- Weak urine flow: The stream of urine may be weak or interrupted, and you can’t empty the bladder completely.
- Difficulty starting urination: It may take longer than usual to start urination or or you may need to strain to begin.
- Incomplete emptying: You may feel that the bladder is not completely emptied after
urination. - Dribbling: You may experience leakage or dribbling of urine after using the bathroom.
While the exact cause of BPH is not fully understood, age and hormonal changes, particularly an increase in the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT), are thought to play a role. BPH is a common condition and is generally not associated with prostate cancer.
When to Contact Us
If you are experiencing any urinary symptoms, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.
Treatment
Treatment options for BPH depend on the severity of symptoms and their impact on daily life. Mild cases may be managed through lifestyle changes, such as reducing fluid intake before bed or avoiding caffeine and alcohol. Medications can also be prescribed to help relax the muscles around the prostate or reduce its size. In more severe cases, minimally invasive procedures or surgery may be recommended to alleviate symptoms and improve urinary flow.