What is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)?
BPH or Benign Prostate Hyperplasia is a non-malignant enlargement of the prostate. Or simply put, it is a condition in which the prostrate enlarges. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia is an outcome of the natural process of aging in men. The prostate gland surrounds urethra, a pipe that carries urine and semen out of the penis. In Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, the prostate gland enlarges, pressing the urethra and thus, leads to urination problems. BPH symptoms are most common in older men. Histological evidence of BPH is found in more than 10% of men in their 30s, 20% of men in their 40s, reaches 50% to 70% of men in their 60s, and is 80% to 90% of men in their 70s and 80s. The majority of men over the age of 60 are considered to have urinary problems due to enlarged prostrate (caused due to BPH).
Causes of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia are unknown but can be caused due to aging, an imbalance in hormones as well as family history. BPH is considered a normal condition of male ageing, and it’s estimated that over half of men over the age of 60 have BPH symptoms. Although the exact cause is unknown, changes in male sex hormones as you age may be a factor. Any family history of prostate problems or any abnormalities with your testicles may raise your risks for BPH. Men who’ve had their testicles removed at a young age don’t develop BPH.
BPH Symptoms. The earlier you identify problems related to prostrate, the better are the chances for BPH treatment. You should consult your doctor immediately, if you witness any symptom below:
- Trouble starting a urine stream or making more than a dribble
- Passing urine frequently, especially at night
- Feeling that the bladder has not fully emptied
- Strong or sudden urge to urinate
- A weak or slow urine stream
- Difficulty in starting and stopping urine flow
- Stopping and starting again several times while passing urine
- Pushing or straining to begin passing urine
- Pain while urinating
BPH Affects. It must be understood that proliferative disorder resulting in BPH affects both the stromal and the epithelial portions of the prostate. Lots of treatment options are available for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) from lifestyle modifications to surgery. Your doctor recommends the option depending on the severity of your symptoms, existing medical conditions, your personal choice and effectiveness of existing medication for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH).