BPH Specialist

BPH Q & A

What is BPH?

BPH, or benign prostatic hyperplasia, is a condition where the prostate gland is enlarged. The prostate gland is located around the urethra, which is the tube responsible for carrying urine from the bladder out of the person’s body. When the prostate is enlarged it can block or cease the flow of urine through the urethra. This can cause issues with urination. The condition affects several men as they age and is not entirely uncommon or always a serious problem. BPH can cause urinary problems including:

• Difficulty beginning urination and stopping a stream
• Weak urine stream
• Feeling that bladder is not totally empty when done
• Feelings the need to urinate frequently

In severe cases, BPH can block the bladder which makes it impossible or extremely difficult to urinate. This can cause kidney damage and bladder stones or infections.

What Causes Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia?

BPH is believed to be a normal aspect of advanced aging in men. It is usually caused by hormonal fluctuations and cell-growth factors. Genetics can contribute to the condition in men, particularly if it occurs with severe symptoms in men under age 60. Men ages 50 and older have an increased chance of developing BPH. However, the reasons certain men have serious symptoms and others do not is presently unknown.

How is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Treated?

Treatment for BPH is based on how mild or severe the symptoms are and whether the man is dealing with any complications. Mild symptoms are generally treated with lifestyle alterations and frequent checkups to keep an eye on symptoms. Moderate symptoms are addressed with lifestyle changes as well and the addition of prescription drugs. If the symptoms are very serious, medications are frequently used and therapies including transurethral microwave therapy and transurethral needle ablations can be employed. When complications are witnessed with BPH doctors usually treat the condition with surgery. This can also be performed if the symptoms have not responded to the other treatments.