Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia(BPH)

The prostate is a small gland in the pelvis that is only found in men. It is located between the penis and the bladder and surrounds the urethra. The main function of the prostate is to help with the production of semen.

It is common for the prostate gland to become enlarged as a man ages. Growth of the prostate gland occurs early in puberty (doubles in size). At around age 25, the gland begins to grow again. This second growth phase often results, years later, in BPH

Causes

With ageing

  • Increase in di-hydro-testosterone (DHT)
  • Increase in oestrogen
  • Decrease in testosterone.

Symptoms and Signs of BPH

  • Difficulty in initiating micturition
  • Dribbling of urine
  • Dysuria
  • Frequent urge to urinate
  • Hematuria
  • incomplete voiding
  • Nocturia
  • Straining to pass urine
  • Sudden urge to urinate resulting in incontinence( if tried to stop)

Investigations

  • Digital Rectal Examination (DRE)
  • Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Blood Test
  • Rectal Ultrasound
  • Prostate Biopsy
  • Urine Flow Study
  • Cystoscopy

Treatment

  • Wait and Watch

For those who do not have irritating symptoms of BPH.

  • General measures
  1. Stop drinking any liquids for one to two hours before going to bed.
  2. Stop drinking alcohol and caffeine
  3. Exercise regularly (walk for 30 to 60 minutes a day)
  • Ayurvedic Medicines
  • Surgery
  1. Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP)
  2. Laser procedures

Complications

Prevention

  • Eat a diet high in protein and vegetables and low in red meat and fat
  • Stop alcohol consumption

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