Enlarged Prostate (BPH)
What is an enlarged prostate or BPH?
Enlarged prostate or BPH, stands for benign prostatic hyperplasia. The prostate gland is normally the size of a walnut and wraps around the urethra. It can grow to the size of a grapefruit, forcing urine through a squeezed opening. When it comes to an enlarged prostate, the biggest problem is not frequency, but failure to fully empty.
The thing to be concerned about is its effect on the kidneys. If the bladder over a long period doesn't drain very well then your kidneys can be affected. Gentlemen who retain urine and don't empty may be prone to infections.
What causes an enlarged prostate?
BPH can happen over time due to body aging and hormonals changes. It is more common in men over 50, however it can develop rarely in men below that age.
How is BPH Diagnosed?
Your doctor will begin with a physical that includes a rectal exam to estimate the size of the enlarged prostate. After the physical, your doctor will also use these tests to help diagnose:
- Urinalysis
- Urodynamic test
- Prostate specific antigen (PSA) test
- Cystoscopy
What are enlarged prostate symptoms?
Symptoms of an enlarged prostate can be subtle, but early detection can lead to successful treatment. When your prostate grows, it can cause issues peeing with the blockage around the urethra. Common symptoms of BPH are:
- Difficulty peeing
- Dribbling or slow stream when peeing
- Inability to finish peeing
- Sudden need to go pee
- Pain during peeing or ejaculating
- Pee smell or change of color
What are the treatment options?
There are many treatment options for BPH depending on your age, size of prostate, and severity of symptoms. Interventions include:
- Medication
- Minimally invasive treatments ranging from laser and microwave procedures
- Prostate surgery
What happens if BPH symptoms are left untreated?
When left untreated, BPH can cause more damage around the urethra, and symptoms worsen. Difficulty peeing will continue and lead to other issues that may include:
- Bladder stones
- Blood in pee
- Damage to your kidney
- Urinary tract infection
What happens if it becomes cancerous?
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Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancers grows in men as they age and will require treatment. The Lee Health Cancer Institute is here to help guide you through the next steps to treatment. Call the facility at 239-343-9500
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