Prostate Enlargement

The prostate is a small, muscular gland in the male reproductive system. It surrounds the urethra and makes most of the fluid in the semen. The action of the prostate helps propel the fluid and semen through the penis during sexual climax.

Some men can experience prostate enlargement and lead to adverse symptoms over time. Prostate enlargement can lead to several other complications. Fortunately, there is the proper treatment for Prostate enlargement.

Enlargement of the prostate is known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The prostate cells multiply excessively and lead to enlargement of the prostate. Your prostate gland swells due to the cells squeezing the urethra and limiting the flow of urine.

Is Enlargement of Prostate Similar to Prostate Cancer?

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia does not cause or increase your risk for cancer. But, it can cause symptoms that can affect your quality of life. Prostate enlargement is typical in men in their 50s and beyond.

Symptoms of Prostate Enlargement or Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

• Urgent need to urinate or frequent urination
• Increased frequency of urination at night
• Difficulty in starting urination
• Weak urine stream
• A urine stream that starts and stops
• Dribbling at the end of urination
• Inability to empty the bladder

Mild Symptoms of Prostate Enlargement include:

• Urinary tract infection
• Inability to urinate
• Blood in the urine

Conditions that have Prostate Enlargement-related Symptoms:

• Urinary tract infection
• Narrowing of the urethra
• Scarring in the bladder neck as a result of previous surgery
• Kidney or bladder stones
• Nerve problems that control the bladder
• Prostate or bladder cancer

Risk Factors of Prostate Enlargement (BPH)

1. Age. Symptoms of prostate gland enlargement start to show in men in their 50s. One-third of men experience moderate to severe symptoms by age 60 to 80.
2. Family history. Having a blood-related patient with prostate problems increases your risk of getting the disease.
3. Diabetes and heart disease. Diabetes and heart disease increases your risk of BPH. Using beta-blockers also has additional risks.
4. Lifestyle. An unhealthy lifestyle and obesity increase the risk of BPH. Exercising can help in reducing your risk of BPH and other diseases.

How to Diagnose Prostate Enlargement or BPH?

• Digital rectal exam
• Blood test
• Prostate-specific antigen blood test
• Urinary flow test
• Postvoid residual volume test
• Transrectal ultrasound
• Prostate biopsy
• Urodynamic and pressure-flow studies
• Cystoscopy

Medications for Prostate Enlargement or BPH

1. Alpha-blockers. It relaxes the bladder muscles and muscle fibers in the prostate, making urination easier.
2. 5-alpha reductase inhibitors. It shrinks your prostate by preventing hormonal changes that cause prostate growth.
3. Combination drug therapy. Your doctor will recommend taking an alpha-blocker and a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor at the same time.