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Benign Prostate Hyperplasia: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

What is Benign Prostate Hyperplasia?

Benign prostate hyperplasia, or BPH, is a common condition in men as they age. It means the prostate gland grows larger but is not cancer. In the United States, many men over 50 have some signs of BPH. Because the prostate sits below the bladder, it can press on the urethra. As a result, this can cause problems with urination. Although BPH is not life-threatening, it can affect daily life. Early care can help manage symptoms and prevent complications.

Common Symptoms

BPH symptoms often develop slowly. However, they can become bothersome over time. Watch for these signs:

  • Needing to urinate often, especially at night
  • Weak or slow urine stream
  • Difficulty starting to urinate
  • Feeling that the bladder is not empty
  • Stopping and starting during urination
  • Sudden urge to urinate

    • Sometimes, symptoms can get worse quickly. If you cannot urinate at all, seek help right away.

    Causes and Risk Factors

    Doctors do not know the exact cause of benign prostate hyperplasia. However, several factors can raise your risk:

  • Getting older (risk increases after age 40)
  • Family history of BPH
  • Obesity or lack of exercise
  • Heart disease or diabetes
  • Hormone changes as men age

    • Because BPH is not cancer, it does not spread to other parts of the body. Yet, it can still cause discomfort and urinary problems.

    Diagnosis Methods

    Doctors use several methods to diagnose benign prostate hyperplasia. First, they ask about your symptoms and health history. Next, they may perform a physical exam. Common tests include:

  • Digital rectal exam (doctor checks the size of the prostate)
  • Urine tests (to rule out infection)
  • Blood tests (to check kidney health)
  • Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test
  • Ultrasound or urine flow study

    • These tests help find the cause of your symptoms and guide treatment.

    Treatment Options

    Treatment for benign prostate hyperplasia depends on how severe your symptoms are. Sometimes, mild cases need only regular check-ups. However, if symptoms bother you, several options exist:

  • Medications: These can relax the prostate or shrink it.
  • Minimally invasive procedures: Doctors use heat, lasers, or other methods to remove part of the prostate.
  • Surgery: In some cases, removing part of the prostate is needed.

    • Because each person is different, your doctor will help choose the best treatment for you.

    Lifestyle Tips and Prevention

    While you cannot always prevent benign prostate hyperplasia, healthy habits may help. Try these tips:

  • Stay active and exercise regularly
  • Eat a balanced diet with fruits and vegetables
  • Limit caffeine and alcohol
  • Avoid drinking fluids before bedtime
  • Empty your bladder fully when you urinate

    • Because these steps support overall health, they may also ease BPH symptoms.

    When to See a Doctor

    If you notice any urinary changes, talk to your doctor. Early care can prevent problems. See a doctor right away if you:

  • Cannot urinate at all
  • Have blood in your urine
  • Feel pain or burning when urinating
  • Have fever or chills with urinary symptoms

    • Because BPH can affect your quality of life, do not wait to seek help.

    Consult a urologist for personalized advice on benign prostate hyperplasia.