What is BPH?
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a condition in which the cells of the prostate enlarge and cause urination problems. It is a common prostate issue in men between the ages of 50 and 80, and affects around 9 million men in the US alone annually. BPH is not cancer and does not lead to cancer, but it can cause significant quality of life issues due to the problems it can cause with urination.
Symptoms of BPH
Men who experience BPH can suffer from a variety of different symptoms, including the following:
• A weak urine stream
• The urge to urinate frequently, especially during the night
• A feeling that the bladder has not emptied completely
• Pain, burning, or difficulty during urination
• Occasional urine leakage
• Blood in the urine
Diagnosing BPH
If you have any symptoms associated with BPH, you should consult with a urologist to rule out any other serious illnesses and ultimately determine if it is indeed BPH. Some of the common tests to diagnose BPH include a digital rectal examination, a blood test, a urinalysis, and an ultrasound. Your urologist may also suggest using a symptom scoring questionnaire to more accurately identify your symptoms.
Treatment of BPH
While there is no cure for BPH, there are many different treatments available aimed at relieving the symptoms. These treatments can range from lifestyle changes such as increasing fluid intake and reducing caffeine and alcohol to more medical treatments such as medications or even surgery. While many of the treatments can help to improve the symptoms of BPH, they are not likely to completely cure the condition.
Your urologist can discuss all of your treatment options with you and help you determine which one is best for you. No matter what course of treatment you decide to take, it is important to stay on top of the symptoms and be proactive in your care. BPH may not always cause severe symptoms, but it is important to be mindful of any changes you experience and to speak to your doctor if you experience any new or worsening symptoms.