The prostate is an organ that is well known for being a source of problems for men, particularly as they age. Benign prostatic hyperplasia, also known as benign prostatic hypertrophy (or BPH for short), is one of the most common prostate problems, and affects as many as 50% of men over 75, though it can occur in younger men too.
Here, we take a look at what BPH is, the symptoms it can cause, and what can be done if you are experiencing them:
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
BPH is a condition where the prostate gland is enlarged. Because the prostate surrounds the urethra, the tube which carries urine from the bladder and out of the body, enlargement can restrict the urethra and cause urinary difficulties.
As you might expect from the word ‘benign’ in the name, BPH is not prostate cancer, or anything else threatening or serious. However, it can be an uncomfortable condition to live with.
Symptoms Associated with BPH
An enlarged prostate can cause a number of symptoms, which are generally annoying and uncomfortable. Men with BPH may feel the need to urinate more often, but have trouble getting started or maintaining a normal urine stream. They may also feel the need to urinate immediately after finishing. BPH also tends to make patients need to urinate more often, a sensation which can wake them up frequently at night.
BPH can also, in rarer cases, cause urine retention. This is where urine remains in the bladder longer than it should, which can lead to bladder stones and other complications.
Prevention and Treatment
Sadly, there is no known way to prevent BPH, which is seen as a normal part of aging in males. There is also no permanent cure, though there are self help techniques to help you live more comfortably with BPH, as well as medical options that can help you reduce the symptoms you experience. It is also wise if you have BPH to avoid certain medications like some over the counter antihistamines and decongestants, which have been shown to exacerbate problems with urination.
If you are concerned about your prostate health, it is always best to make an appointment to see us, because while BPH is not a dangerous or serious condition, other prostate problems can be. If you need help controlling BPH, or have any other prostate concerns, please contact us today at 212-675-3186!