Understanding Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment Options
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, affects a significant number of men as they age. This common condition can lead to uncomfortable urinary symptoms and, if left untreated, serious health issues. Understanding its causes, diagnosis, and treatment options is crucial for men's health.
The prostate gland, situated between the bladder and the penis, plays a vital role in male reproduction. As men age, this gland can become enlarged, leading to prostate enlargement. While the exact cause remains unknown, research suggests links to hormonal changes, aging, and genetic factors.
Diagnosing BPH involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and tests such as the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test, urinalysis, uroflowmetry, transrectal ultrasound (TRUS), and cystoscopy. Treatment options range from watchful waiting and lifestyle changes to medications like alpha-blockers and 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors, and minimally invasive procedures or surgeries. These include transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), laser therapies, water vapor therapy (Rezūm), and transurethral needle ablation (TUNA). Phytotherapy, or plant-based remedies, also offers relief for some patients.
Symptoms of BPH can significantly impact quality of life, including frequent urination, weak urine stream, difficulty starting to urinate, dribbling after urination, painful urination, and increased risk of utis. Approximately 50% of men between 51 and 60, and up to 90% of men over 80, are affected by BPH, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK).
BPH is a prevalent condition among older men, with a range of treatment options tailored to individual needs. Early diagnosis and appropriate management can help alleviate symptoms, prevent complications such as urinary tract infections, kidney damage, and bladder stones, and reduce the risk of prostate cancer.
