Prostate enlargement, medically known as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), is a common benign condition in men that occurs with age. The prostate is a small gland located just below the bladder and surrounding the urethra. As men age, this gland can enlarge, obstructing the flow of urine and causing various symptoms.
What are the symptoms of BPH?
BPH can affect your urination habits. Common symptoms include:
- Frequent urination
- Waking up at night to urinate (nocturia)
- Difficulty starting to urinate
- Weak or interrupted urine flow
- Feeling that the bladder is not completely empty after urinating
These symptoms can reduce your quality of life and limit your daily activities.
When Does BPH Become Dangerous?
BPH is not usually a serious health problem, but in some cases it can lead to complications:
- Urinary tract infections
- Bladder stones
- Kidney damage
- Inability to urinate completely (acute urinary retention)
These complications can develop into serious conditions requiring medical intervention.
How is BPH Treated?
BPH treatment is tailored to the individual based on the severity of symptoms and the patient’s overall health:
- Lifestyle changes:
Simple measures such as reducing caffeine and alcohol consumption, limiting fluid intake in the evening, and regular exercise may be sufficient for some patients.
- Medication:
Alpha blockers (medications that relax the urinary tract) and 5-alpha reductase inhibitors (medications that reduce prostate volume) are the most commonly used medical options.
o Minimally invasive treatment methods:
Procedures that aim to shrink prostate tissue and do not require hospitalisation. The most commonly used example of this is Rezum – Steam Treatment. Controlled steam is delivered to the prostate tissue via a special device, causing the tissue to shrink over time. It can be performed on an outpatient basis, requires minimal anaesthesia, and ejaculation can be preserved.
o Surgical interventions:
Surgery is considered in more advanced or drug-resistant cases: HoLEP (Holmium Laser Prostatectomy) surgery, which we use most frequently today, regardless of prostate size, is one of the most commonly used surgical methods, offering less bleeding, shorter hospital stays, and high patient satisfaction. The entire enlarged portion of the prostate is removed endoscopically using laser energy.
When Should You See a Doctor?
It is recommended that you consult a urologist in the following situations:
- Urinary problems that affect your daily life
- Pain or burning sensation when urinating
- Blood in the urine
- Inability to urinate
Early diagnosis and treatment are important in preventing complications.
At UroHealth, we care about your prostate health. If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, you can contact our team of specialists to schedule a detailed assessment appointment. Take the first step towards a healthy life.