Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

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Welcome to the ultimate guide on benign prostatic hypertrophy. Here, you'll find answers to the most common questions to help you or your loved ones understand and manage this condition better.

Description for benign prostatic hypertrophy

Non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that can cause urinary symptoms in men.

Symptoms of benign prostatic hypertrophy

difficulty starting urinatio, frequent urination, nocturia, urgency to urinate, weak urine stream

Precautions for benign prostatic hypertrophy

Stay hydrated, Avoid caffeine, Practice pelvic floor exercises, Follow a prostate-healthy diet

Questions Covered:

causes of benign prostatic hypertrophy?
What are the usual symptoms of benign prostatic hypertrophy?
How do doctors usually figure out if someone has benign prostatic hypertrophy, diagnosis?
How do doctors usually treat benign prostatic hypertrophy?
What are the possible complications that could arise from benign prostatic hypertrophy?

Answers:

Question: causes of benign prostatic hypertrophy?

BPH is considered a normal condition of aging. Although the exact cause is unknown, changes in male sex hormones that come with aging may be a factor.
Any family history of prostate problems or any abnormalities with your testicles may raise your risk for BPH. Men who've had their testicles removed at a young age don't develop BPH.

Question: What are the usual symptoms of benign prostatic hypertrophy?

The symptoms of BPH are often very mild at first, but they become more serious if they aren't treated. Common symptoms include:
incomplete bladder emptying
nocturia, which is the need to urinate two or more times per night
dribbling at the end of your urinary stream
incontinence, or leakage of urine
straining when urinating
a weak urinary stream
a sudden urge to urinate
a slowed or delayed urinary stream
painful urination
blood in the urine
Talk with your doctor if you have any of these symptoms. They're treatable, and treating them often can help prevent complications.

Question: How do doctors usually figure out if someone has benign prostatic hypertrophy, diagnosis?

When checking you for BPH, your doctor will usually begin by doing a physical exam and asking you about your medical history. The physical exam includes a rectal examination that allows the doctor to estimate the size and shape of your prostate. Other tests can include:
Urinalysis. Your urine is checked for blood and bacteria.
Urodynamic test. Your bladder is filled with liquid via a catheter to measure your bladder's pressure during urination.
Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test. This blood test checks for cancer of the prostate.
Post-void residual. This tests the amount of urine left in your bladder after urination.
Cystoscopy. This is the examination of your urethra and bladder with a tiny lighted scope that's inserted into your urethra
Your doctor may also ask about medications you're taking that might be affecting your urinary system, such as:
antidepressants
diuretics
antihistamines
sedatives
Your doctor can make any necessary medication adjustments. Don't attempt to adjust your medications or doses yourself.
Let your doctor know if you've taken self-care measures for your symptoms for at least 2 months without noticing any improvement.

Question: How do doctors usually treat benign prostatic hypertrophy?

Treatment of BPH can begin with self-care and lifestyle adjustments. If symptoms don't subside, medication or surgery may be recommended. Your age and general health will also influence the prescribed treatment.
Learn more about BPH treatment.

Question:

Natural treatment can include specific actions or lifestyle changes that you can make to help relieve your symptoms of BPH. These include:
urinating as soon as you feel the urge
going to the bathroom to urinate, even when you don't feel the urge
avoiding over-the-counter decongestants or antihistamine medications, which can make it harder for the bladder to empty
avoiding alcohol and caffeine, especially in the hours after dinner
reducing your stress level, as nervousness can increase the frequency of urination
exercising regularly, as a lack of exercise can aggravate your symptoms
learning and practicing Kegel exercises to strengthen your pelvic muscles
keeping warm, since being cold can make symptoms worse
Some people also include natural remedies in their treatment of BPH. However, there isn't evidence that they're effective.
Learn more about BPH natural remedies.

Question: What are the possible complications that could arise from benign prostatic hypertrophy?

The symptoms of BPH can be easy to ignore. However, early treatment can help you avoid potentially dangerous complications. Call your doctor if you're noticing symptoms of BPH.
People with a long-standing history of BPH may develop the following complications:
urinary tract infections
urinary stones
kidney damage
bleeding in the urinary tract
a sudden inability to urinate
Sometimes, urinary obstruction from BPH is so severe that no urine can leave the bladder at all. This is called bladder outlet obstruction. It can be dangerous because urine trapped in the bladder can cause urinary tract infections and damage your kidneys.

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Conclusion & Takeaways

Learning about benign prostatic hypertrophy is the first step toward taking control of your health. By understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatments, you empower yourself to make informed decisions. Remember to consult healthcare professionals for personalized advice and support.