Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

Often designated as the walnut shaped organ, the prostate is an exclusive gland to men that surrounds the start of the urethra. The prostate creates the milky fluid that offers nutrients to the sperm and is discharged into the urethra during semen secretion. The development of the prostate is stimulated by male hormones. The best security for prostate complications such as benign prostatic hyperplasia is to regularly see your doctor for medical checkups, which includes a prostate exam.

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Defined

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (also called BPH) or benign prostatic hypertrophy is a male condition that distresses the prostate gland. The prostate is a gland found between the bladder (where urine is stored) and the urethra (the tube urine passes through). With age the prostate gland gradually enlarges. As this occurs, it can put pressure on the urethra and cause a slower pace of urine. "Benign" indicates the enlargement isn't caused by cancer or infection. "Hyperplasia" means enlargement.

Symptoms Of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

Symptoms of BPH gradually appear including frequent night urination, necessity to empty the bladder during the day, and complications in urine flow or dribbling after urination stops. The size and strength of the urine stream may also be reduced. These symptoms are not only attributed to BPH and may be signs of more serious ailments, such as a bladder infection or bladder cancer.

Diagnosing Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

Diagnosing Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia includes the following:

•Digital rectal exam

•Transrectal ultrasound

•Urine tests

•Prostate-specific antigen test

Risk Factors Of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

The key risk factors for benign prostatic hyperplasia include: Aging – Prostate gland enlargement rarely causes signs and symptoms in men younger than 40. By 55, about 1 in 4 men have some signs and symptoms. By 75, about half of men report some symptoms. Family History – If a blood relative is fighting prostate issues it increases your chances to endure problems as well.

Treatment For Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

Men who don't experience symptoms of BPH don't necessarily require treatment. BPH is typically approached using the following tactics.

•Lifestyle changes - Men with mild symptoms may be able to cope with lifestyle adjustments, such as urinating upon urge, eliminating alcohol and caffeine or beverages before going to sleep, avoiding the use of drugs (prescription and over the counter), and exercising frequently.

•Surgery – When symptoms are severe surgery may be required such as Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), a minimally invasive treatment that removes part of the prostate or newer technical advanced surgeries involving lasers limit bleeding and shorten recovery time or (TUIP). For dangerous cases, a prostatectomy is recommended to remove the prostate. Laser surgeries are also introduced for prostate enlargement issues such as Holmium laser ablation of the prostate (HoLAP), Visual laser ablation of the prostate (VLAP), Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP), and Photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP).

•Transurethral microwave thermotherapy (TUMT)

•Transurethral needle ablation (TUNA) •Medications

Medications For Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

Medications for BPH include: Inhibitors – Lowers hormone levels, shrinking the prostate and increasing urine flow, but may reduce sex drive and impotence (Proscar and Avodart) Alpha Blockers – Improves urine flow and relax bladder muscles and muscle fibers in the prostate itself (Cardura, Flomax, Uroxatral and Rapaflo. Cialis – Often used to treat male impotence (erectile dysfunction), can be used as a treatment for prostate enlargement.

Prevention Of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

The best protection against prostate issues is to have regular medical checkups that include a careful prostate exam. See a doctor promptly if symptoms occur such as frequent urge to urinate, difficulty in urinating, or dribbling of urine.