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Age-related benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), sometimes referred to as benign prostatic hypertrophy or blockage, is a common non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland in men. The prostate is a small gland located beneath the bladder, responsible for producing semen. It often increases in size as individuals get older. An enlarged prostate obstructs the flow of urine from the bladder, which can lead to symptoms and complications in the kidneys, bladder, or urinary tract.
In the past, Surgery was the main method of treating BPH symptoms. However, new medical developments and Minimally Invasive Surgery have opened up new avenues for symptom treatment. By relaxing the prostate muscle or opening the prostatic urethra, these treatments improve urine flow and minimise associated problems. New and advanced techniques in Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Treatment provide less intrusive options for surgery, improving the overall well-being of men with BPH by easing symptoms and decreasing the likelihood of severe urinary issues.
The prostate surrounds your urethra. BPH can result in urethral blockage when it causes your prostate to enlarge. Thus, among the initial signs of BPH are as follows:
Urinating in a slow and dribbling motion
Difficulty initiating or experiencing challenges in urination
Sudden, urgent need to urinate
Waking up at night frequently to urinate
Dripping (uncontrollably)
Being unable to empty your bladder fully
Discomfort during or after ejaculating
The colour of your urine changes
Strong urine odour
The exact cause of BPH is unknown. Factors related to ageing and changes in testicular cells may affect the size of the gland and testosterone levels. However, males who have had their testicles removed at a young age, such as for testicular cancer, are not at risk of developing BPH.
Our healthcare professionals review your medical history. A digital rectal exam will also be performed. You could be asked to rate how your symptoms impact your daily life on a scale. This score aids in your provider's assessment of whether your condition is getting worse. Additional examinations could be:
Assess the flow rate of urine (Uroflowmetry)
To find out how much urine is left in your bladder after urinating, do a post-void residual urine test
Pressure-flow studies to gauge the bladder's pressure during urination
Urinalysis to look for infections or blood
Urine culture to look for pathogens
PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test for prostate cancer screening
Cystoscopy
Creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) tests are used to assess kidney function
BPH may result in the following side effects:
Urinary tract infection (UTI): Obstruction or decreased urinary flow can allow certain bacteria to thrive, leading to symptoms of UTIs like cystitis or prostatitis
Chronic retention of urine: Urinary retention refers to the condition where one is unable to fully empty their bladder, resulting in weak urine flow. The nighttime urge to urinate, a sensation of abdominal swelling, and incomplete bladder emptying. While it typically isn't bothersome, prolonged urinary retention can eventually lead to weakened bladder muscles.
Acute urinary retention (AUR): Signs of this condition may include a swollen bladder that can be felt, severe pain in the lower abdomen, and an unanticipated inability to urinate. It is imperative to seek immediate medical attention by going to the Accident and Emergency Department.
The initial approach for treating BPH is the use of Alpha-blockers. Alpha-blockers help to relax the smooth muscles in the prostate and neck of the bladder, making urination easier. Examples of Alpha-blockers include Alfuzosin (Uroxatral), Doxazosin (Cardura), Tamsulosin (Flomax), Silodosin (Rapaflo), and Terazosin. These medications often have a quick effect on individuals with smaller prostates.
Seek advice from a medical professional for personalised treatment plans. BPH treatment includes:
Medications:
Alpha-blockers, like Tamsulosin and Alfuzosin, cause the muscles of the prostate to become less tense
Alpha Reductase Inhibitors, including Finasteride and Dutasteride, reduce the size of the prostate gland
Minimally Invasive Procedure:
Transurethral Microwave Therapy (TUMT)
Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP)
Transurethral Needle Ablation (TUNA)
Urolift, or Prostatic Urethral Lift
Laser Treatment
Surgery: For severe cases, which can include an Open or Robot-assisted Prostatectomy.
Lifestyle Modifications:
Cutting back on fluids before bed
Reducing alcohol and caffeine intake
Exercise regularly and do bladder training
While there is currently no cure for BPH, there are measures that can reduce its symptoms. In some instances, mild symptoms may not require treatment. However, more severe cases may be addressed through less invasive techniques, medication, or surgery.
Medications such as Finasteride and Dutasteride are commonly used to decrease the production of hormones by the prostate gland. These drugs reduce the levels of Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a potent form of testosterone that affects hair and prostate growth. This can lead to a decrease in prostate size and improve urine flow. However, there is a risk of rare side effects such as erectile dysfunction and decreased libido with these medications.
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