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Prostate Enlargement (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia)

Prostate enlargement, also called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is a common condition in older men. It happens when the prostate grows bigger and presses on the urethra, making it hard to urinate. Many men notice a weak urine stream, frequent urination—especially at night—and the feeling that the bladder doesn’t fully empty. BPH isn’t cancer, but it can affect your daily life. Treatment depends on your symptoms and may include lifestyle changes, medications, or surgery. With proper care, most men find relief and live comfortably.

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What Is BPH (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia)?

BPH is a condition where the prostate gland grows larger than normal. This growth is not harmful like cancer, but it can press on nearby parts like the bladder and urethra. That pressure makes it hard for urine to pass smoothly. Many men over the age of 50 may have BPH. The prostate keeps growing as men age, so symptoms may get worse over time if not treated.

What Causes Prostate Enlargement?

Doctors don’t know the exact cause of BPH, but it mostly happens because of aging and changes in male hormones. As men get older, testosterone levels drop, and other hormone levels change. These changes may cause the prostate to grow. Other possible causes:

  • Family history of BPH
  • Diabetes or heart disease
  • Obesity or lack of exercise
  • Lifestyle habits like drinking a lot of alcohol or caffeine

Common Symptoms of BPH

When the prostate gets bigger, it can cause uncomfortable symptoms. These include:

  • Trouble starting to pee
  • A weak or slow urine stream
  • Peeing often, especially at night
  • Feeling like you need to pee again soon after going
  • A strong and sudden urge to pee
  • Sudden Urges to Urinate: Sudden and intense urges to urinate.
  • Feeling like your bladder isn’t empty even after peeing
  • Sometimes leaking or dribbling pee

These symptoms may come and go, or they can get worse over time.

How Is BPH Diagnosed?

Your doctor will check your symptoms and do a few tests to see if you have BPH. These tests help make sure it’s not something else like an infection or prostate cancer. Some common tests include:

  • Urine Test: Checks for infection or blood in your urine.
  • Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): The doctor feels the size of the prostate by gently putting a gloved finger into your rectum.
  • PSA Blood Test: PSA is a protein made by the prostate. High levels might mean BPH or prostate cancer.
  • Ultrasound or MRI: These scans show the size and shape of the prostate.
  • Uroflow Test: This measures how fast your pee comes out.
  • Post-Void Residual Test: Checks how much urine is left in your bladder after you pee.

When Should You See a Doctor?

You should see a doctor if you:

  • Have trouble peeing
  • Pee more than 8 times a day
  • Wake up many times at night to pee
  • Feel pain or burning when peeing
  • See blood in your urine
  • Can’t pee at all (this is an emergency)

Getting help early can stop the problem from getting worse.

Treatment Options for Prostate Enlargement

BPH can be managed with lifestyle changes, medicine, or surgery, depending on how bad your symptoms are.

For mild symptoms, simple changes can help:

  • Don’t drink water right before bed
  • Cut back on caffeine and alcohol
  • Exercise regularly
  • Eat healthy foods and stay active

Medicines for BPH

Doctors may give you one or more types of medicine:

  • Alpha Blockers: These help relax the muscles in the bladder and prostate, so pee flows better. Example: Tamsulosin.
  • 5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitors: These help shrink the prostate over time. Example: Finasteride.
  • Combination Therapy: Sometimes doctors give both types together for better results.

Dr. Vishal Dutt Gour

MBBS, MS - General Surgery, MCh - Urology/Genito-Urinary Surgery, Urologist, Urological Surgeon, Andrologist

  • Urologist, Urological Surgeon, Andrologist
  • 20+ Years Experience
Dr. Gautam Banga

MBBS, MS - General Surgery, MCh - Urology, Urologist, Andrologist, Urological Surgeon

  • Urologist, Andrologist, Urological Surgeon
  • 19+ Years Experience

Minimally Invasive Procedures

If medicines don’t work, you might need a small procedure:

  • TUMT (Transurethral Microwave Therapy): Uses heat to reduce the size of the prostate.
  • TUNA (Transurethral Needle Ablation): Uses radio waves to kill extra prostate tissue.
  • Laser Therapy: Removes extra prostate tissue with a laser beam.

Surgery Options

For severe symptoms, surgery may be the best choice:

  • TURP (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate): A tool is used to remove part of the prostate through the urethra.
  • Open Prostatectomy: The doctor removes part or all of the prostate through a cut in the belly.
  • UroLift: Tiny implants are placed to lift and hold the prostate out of the way, so the urethra stays open.

Is Prostate Enlargement Serious?

BPH is not dangerous like cancer, but it can make daily life uncomfortable. If left untreated, it can cause:

  • Bladder infections
  • Bladder stones
  • Kidney damage
  • Complete blockage of urine (which is a medical emergency)

So, it’s important to treat BPH and not ignore symptoms.

BPH vs. Prostate Cancer: What’s the Difference?

Even though both affect the prostate, they are different conditions:

  • BPH: Non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate. Common in older men.
  • Prostate Cancer: A serious disease where prostate cells grow uncontrollably.

BPH does not turn into cancer. But both can happen at the same time, so your doctor may do tests like PSA to rule out cancer.

Living with BPH: Tips for Daily Life

You can manage your BPH and feel better with small changes:

  • Pee when you feel the urge don’t wait too long
  • Avoid long car trips without bathroom breaks
  • Cut back on salt, caffeine, and alcohol
  • Stay active walking daily can help
  • Take your medicine on time
  • Go for regular doctor check-ups

FAQs

Benign prostatic hyperplasia is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that can cause urinary symptoms in men. It's a common condition that often occurs as men age.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that can cause urinary symptoms in men. It's a common condition that often occurs as men age. If you're experiencing symptoms of BPH, don't hesitate to seek medical attention from a trusted healthcare provider at SCI Hospital. Our skilled and experienced doctors are dedicated to providing you with the best possible care for your condition.

Early signs may include frequent urination (especially at night), difficulty starting urination, a weak urine stream, and feeling that the bladder isn't completely empty after urinating. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment with one of our trusted doctors at SCI Hospital to discuss your options for treatment.

As the prostate enlarges, it can compress the urethra (the tube that carries urine out of the body). This can lead to various urinary symptoms and potential complications if left untreated. At SCI Hospital, our doctors are committed to helping you manage your symptoms effectively and develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs.

BPH itself doesn't directly cause sexual dysfunction. However, some treatments for BPH may affect sexual function. It's important to discuss any concerns with your doctor. Our doctors at SCI Hospital are dedicated to helping you maintain a healthy sex life while also addressing your BPH symptoms

BPH is very common, especially in older men. It affects about 50% of men by age 60 and up to 90% of men by age 85. At SCI Hospital, we understand the impact that BPH can have on your daily life and are committed to providing you with the best possible care.

While there's no cure for BPH, various treatments can effectively manage symptoms and improve quality of life. These include medications, minimally invasive procedures, and surgery in severe cases. Our skilled and experienced doctors at SCI Hospital are equipped to perform these procedures and will work with you to determine the best course of treatment for your specific needs.

The exact cause of prostate enlargement isn’t known, but aging and hormone changes are likely factors. At SCI Hospital, our urologists help you understand BPH and create a treatment plan that fits your needs, so you can manage symptoms and live comfortably.

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Written By: Dr. Gautam Banga
Education: MBBS, Master of Surgery (MS), M.Ch. Fellowship in Reconstructive Urology. Urologist, Andrologist, Urological Surgeon
Experience: 19 Years

Dr. Gautam Banga is a highly respected and accomplished urologist with a strong background in reconstructive urology.His expertise in this field has earned him international recognition, and he has been invited to share his knowledge at national conferences in several countries.

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Sanjay Mehra
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I was scared about my prostate problem, but the doctor made me feel safe. Treatment was good and the staff was helpful.
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Arun Kumar
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The urologist at SCI Hospital helped me understand my BPH. I got the right medicine and care. Very happy with the service.