What is Enlarged Prostate?

The prostate is a small, walnut-shaped organ located between the bladder and the base of the penis. Prostate enlargement, sometimes called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is a common condition in men over 50. BPH causes the prostate to increase in size and press against the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder. This can put pressure on the bladder and cause problems with urinating.

Symptoms of Enlarged Prostate

The most common symptom of BPH is a slow, interrupted, or weak urinary stream. Other symptoms include frequent urination, especially at night, difficulty starting urination, a feeling of incomplete emptying of the bladder, and a weak urine stream. These symptoms can have a major impact on quality of life and should be consulted with a urologist.

Causes of Enlarged Prostate

The exact cause of BPH is not known, but age and hormones are thought to play a role. As men age and their testosterone levels decrease, their bodies produce more of the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is thought to cause the prostate to grow in size. Another factor that may play a role is inflammation. Some studies have found that men with BPH have higher levels of inflammatory markers in their prostate tissue compared to men without BPH. Other risk factors for BPH include family history, obesity, and certain medical conditions like diabetes and heart disease.

Treatment Options

The goal of treatment for BPH is to improve symptoms while avoiding serious side effects like urinary retention or kidney damage. Treatment options include lifestyle changes, medications, minimally invasive surgical procedures, and traditional open prostatectomy surgery. Lifestyle changes such as reducing alcohol consumption and avoiding certain medications (e.g., decongestants and antidepressants) have been shown to improve symptoms in some men with BPH. Medications, such as alpha-blockers and 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors, can help to reduce the size of the prostate. Minimally invasive procedures are used to shrink the prostate and improve the flow of urine. In severe cases, traditional prostatectomy may be needed to remove the entire prostate gland.

In conclusion, BPH is a common condition in older men that can cause a variety of urinary symptoms. While the exact cause is not known, age and hormones are thought to play a role. Treatment options vary and should be discussed with a urologist. Lifestyle changes and medications can help reduce symptoms in some cases, while minimally invasive and traditional surgical procedures may be needed for more severe cases.