It is also known as prostate gland enlargement, is a prevalent condition among ageing men that can significantly impact urinary function and quality of life.

This blog post aims to provide a detailed overview of BPH, including its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and management strategies.

What is BPH?

A non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, located around the urethra, the tube responsible for transporting urine from the bladder to the penis. As men age, hormonal changes, particularly the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), contribute to the growth of prostate tissue. This enlargement can gradually compress the urethra, leading to various urinary symptoms.

Common Symptoms of BPH

The symptoms of BPH can vary in severity but often include:

• Frequent or urgent need to urinate
• Difficulty starting urination
• Weak urine stream or dribbling
• Increased frequency of urination at night (nocturia)
• Feeling of incomplete bladder emptying

Diagnosis and Evaluation

Diagnosing BPH typically involves a thorough medical history and physical examination (digital rectal exam DRE), urinalysis, and possibly a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test to rule out prostate cancer. Imaging studies such as ultrasound or cystoscopy may be recommended to assess the size and condition of the prostate gland.

Treatment Options

Treatment for BPH depends on the severity and their impact on daily life:

• Watchful Waiting: Monitoring symptoms without immediate intervention, especially for mild cases.
• Medications to relax prostate muscles or reduce prostate size, respectively.
• Minimally Invasive Therapies: Procedures like transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), laser therapy, or prostate artery embolization (PAE) to remove or shrink excess prostate tissue.
• Surgery: In cases of severe BPH, surgical options such as open or robotic-assisted prostatectomy may be considered.

Lifestyle Modifications and Self-Care

In addition to medical treatments, lifestyle changes help to manage symptoms and improve overall urinary health:

• Limiting fluid intake before bedtime
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol
• Practicing pelvic floor exercises (Kegel exercises) to strengthen urinary control

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a condition affecting older men characterized by the enlargement of the prostate gland and associated urinary symptoms. While BPH is not life-threatening, its impact on daily life can be significant. Understanding symptoms and treatment options is essential for effectively managing BPH and improving quality of life. Regular communication with doctor and adherence to recommended treatments can help men navigate this condition and maintain urinary health as they age.