BPH is an enlargement of the prostate gland, a walnut-sized organ located below the bladder in men. This enlargement presses on the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder, causing urinary problems.
Symptoms frequently include frequent urination, especially at night (nocturia), a weak or interrupted urine stream, a feeling of incomplete bladder emptying, and urgency. Severity varies widely.
Risk factors include aging; most men experience some prostate enlargement after age 50. Family history also increases risk. Obesity and certain medical conditions can contribute.
Diagnosis involves a digital rectal exam (DRE), where a doctor feels the prostate through the rectum to assess its size and consistency. A urine test and blood tests may also be done. Uroflowmetry, measuring urine flow rate, can help evaluate urinary function.
Treatment options depend on symptom severity. Many men manage symptoms with lifestyle changes like increasing fluid intake during the day and reducing fluid intake before bedtime. Medication, such as alpha-blockers or 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors, helps relax the prostate and improve urine flow. Minimally invasive procedures like transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) or laser therapy are options for more severe cases.
Regular checkups with your doctor are crucial for monitoring BPH and managing symptoms. Early diagnosis and proactive management help improve quality of life and prevent complications.
