Benign prostatic enlargement, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is a noncancerous increase in the size of the prostate gland. This condition is common in older men and can affect urination and quality of life.
Causes
BPH is primarily related to aging and hormonal changes. As men age, the balance of hormones such as testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) shifts, leading to the gradual growth of the prostate gland. Other contributing factors may include:
- Family history of prostate problems
- Obesity and lack of physical activity
- Chronic health conditions such as diabetes and heart disease
Symptoms
Symptoms of benign prostatic enlargement can vary in severity and may include:
- Frequent need to urinate, especially at night (nocturia)
- Difficulty starting urination
- Weak or interrupted urine stream
- Dribbling at the end of urination
- Incomplete emptying of the bladder
- Urgency to urinate
In severe cases, BPH can lead to urinary retention or infections.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis typically involves:
- Medical history and symptom review
- Physical examination, including a digital rectal exam (DRE)
- Urine tests to rule out infection or other causes
- Blood tests to check kidney function and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels
- Ultrasound or other imaging to assess the size of the prostate and bladder function
Treatment Options
Treatment for BPH depends on the severity of symptoms and their impact on daily life:
- Lifestyle changes: Reducing caffeine and alcohol intake, limiting fluids before bedtime, and regular physical activity.
- Medications: Alpha-blockers to relax prostate muscles and improve urine flow, or 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors to shrink the prostate.
- Minimally invasive procedures: Techniques such as transurethral microwave therapy (TUMT) or transurethral needle ablation (TUNA).
- Surgery: Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) or other surgical options for severe cases.
Prevention
While BPH cannot be completely prevented, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing chronic conditions, and regular check-ups can help reduce risk and detect problems early.
Takeaway
Benign prostatic enlargement is a common condition in older men. With proper management, most men can control symptoms and maintain a good quality of life.