Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), or prostate enlargement, is a common condition affecting men as they age. While BPH is not cancerous, it can cause significant urinary symptoms and impact the quality of life.
Symptoms of Prostate Enlargement (BPH)
Prostate enlargement can lead to various urinary symptoms, including:
- Frequent need to urinate, especially at night (nocturia)
- Difficulty starting urination
- Weak or interrupted urine stream
- Dribbling at the end of urination
- Inability to completely empty the bladder
- Urinary retention (inability to urinate)
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Etiologies (Causes) of Prostate Enlargement (BPH)
BPH is caused by the gradual enlargement of the prostate gland, which can compress the urethra and affect urine flow. Factors contributing to BPH include:
- Aging: BPH is common in men over 50
- Hormonal Changes: Alterations in hormone levels, particularly dihydrotestosterone (DHT), play a role
- Family History: A family history of BPH can increase the risk
- Lifestyle Factors: Obesity and lack of physical activity
Investigations and Diagnosis
Diagnosing BPH typically involves:
- Medical History: Identifying symptoms, medical history, and any medications taken
- Physical Examination: Digital rectal examination (DRE) to assess prostate size and condition
- Laboratory Tests: Urine tests to check for infections or other urinary problems. Blood tests to measure prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels
- Imaging Studies: Ultrasound or other imaging to evaluate the prostate and urinary tract
- Urodynamic or Flow Tests: Assessing bladder function and urine flow
Treatment Options for Prostate Enlargement (BPH)
Effective management of BPH depends on the severity of symptoms and may include:
- Lifestyle Modifications:
- Reducing fluid intake before bedtime
- Limiting caffeine and alcohol consumption
- Regular physical activity to improve urinary function
- Medications:
- Alpha-Blockers: Relax the muscles of the prostate and bladder neck to improve urine flow
- 5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitors: Shrink the prostate by blocking hormone production
- Combination Therapy: Using both alpha-blockers and 5-alpha reductase inhibitors for more effective symptom relief
- Surgery at the Urologist
- Usually involves removal of part of the prostate around the prostatic urethra. It may utilize radiofrequency, lasers or microwaves
- Prostatectomy: Removal of part or all of the prostate, usually for severe cases
Follow-Up and Management
Regular follow-up is important to monitor progress and ensure resolution:
- Monitoring Symptoms: Assessing urinary function and quality of life
- Adjusting Treatment: Modifying medications or interventions based on response
- Managing Side Effects: Addressing any side effects of treatments or medications
Empower Yourself
Understanding prostate enlargement and its management options can lead to improved urinary function and quality of life. If you are experiencing symptoms of BPH, Dr Chester Lan is here at Freia Medical (Wisma Atria) for personalized diagnosis and treatment.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, you can call in at 6735 8180, Whatsapp us at 8223 0609, email us at info@freia.sg, or book a consultation online at https://freia.sg/appointments/