What is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia?
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a condition that occurs when the prostate gland grows in size. The growth is non-cancerous.
BPH is a common condition that affects older men and can cause urinary symptoms such as frequent urination, difficulty starting and stopping urination, and weak urine flow. More severe, chronic cases of BPH can also result in testicular pain, erectile dysfunction, and other symptoms.
Who is effected Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia?
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia is a common condition that often affects men over the age of 50. It is more likely to occur in men who have a family history of the condition or who have high levels of testosterone.
Is BPH dangerous?
First, although it has nothing to do with cancer, untreated BPH has the potential to lead to serious complications, ranging from urinary tract infections and stones in the bladder or kidney to urinary retention and kidney damage. Please talk to a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
How is BPH treated?
The most appropriate treatment for BPH will depend on the severity of the condition and the individual's symptoms.
Medications for BPH
Medications containing pygeum, zinc, and lecithin are often the first line of treatment for BPH. Additionally, alpha blockers can help to relax the muscles in the prostate, and 5-alpha reductase inhibitors can shrink the prostate gland and slow its growth.
Minimally Invasive Procedures for BPH
Minimally invasive procedures such as transurethral microwave thermotherapy (TUMT) and transurethral needle ablation (TUNA) are often used to treat more sever cases of BPH. These procedures use heat or radiofrequency energy to shrink the prostate gland.
Surgeries for BPH
In cases where medication and minimally invasive procedures are not effective, surgery may be necessary. There are several surgical options available for BPH, including transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), laser prostatectomy, and open prostatectomy.
Please talk to a healthcare professional if you have questions and to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
