Glossary
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), also known as prostate gland enlargement, is a common condition as men get older. It is a non-cancerous increase in the size of the prostate gland and is a part of the natural aging process in men. The prostate gland, which is about the size of a walnut, forms part of the male reproductive system. It is located below the bladder and surrounds the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body. As the prostate enlarges, it can put pressure on the urethra, causing uncomfortable urinary symptoms.BPH is not a form of prostate cancer, nor does it increase the risk of developing prostate cancer. However, the symptoms can be similar, so it's important to receive a proper diagnosis.
The exact cause of BPH is not completely understood, but it seems to be related to changes in male sex hormones as men age. The balance of hormones in your body changes as you get older and this may cause your prostate gland to grow. Symptoms of BPH often start after the age of 50. They can include trouble starting a urine stream or making more than a small stream, feeling like you have to urinate a lot, more often during the night, feeling like your bladder is not empty after you urinate, feeling a strong or sudden urge to urinate, and sometimes leaking or dribbling urine. The severity of symptoms in people who have BPH varies; some men have only minor annoyances while others experience significant lifestyle disruption. The impact of BPH on a person's quality of life is significant, with the condition often leading to loss of productivity and sleep, depression, and decreased quality of life.
Men with BPH may find that the symptoms can significantly affect their quality of life. In particular, they may find that they have to plan their daily activities around their access to a bathroom, which can be inconvenient and embarrassing. Diagnosis of BPH involves a detailed medical history, and physical examination, including a digital rectal examination, urine tests, and blood tests to rule out other conditions, such as kidney problems and prostate cancer. Other tests like Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test, urinary flow test, and imaging tests like Transrectal ultrasound or Prostate biopsy may also be done.
Treatment for BPH varies depending on the severity of symptoms and the risk of complications. For mild symptoms, lifestyle changes such as reducing fluid intake before bedtime, avoiding alcohol and caffeine, and performing Kegel exercises to strengthen the pelvic muscles can help. Medications are often the first line of treatment for moderate to severe BPH. These can include Alpha-blockers, 5-alpha reductase inhibitors, and Tadalafil. In some cases, minimally invasive procedures or even surgery may be required to remove or open up parts of the prostate.
In conclusion, Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia is a common condition that affects many men as they age. While it is not cancerous, it can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms that can significantly impact a person's quality of life. However, with a range of treatment options available, it is usually possible to manage the symptoms effectively and maintain a good quality of life. Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider are important for men as they age, to ensure that any symptoms of conditions like BPH are detected and treated early.