Wiki Prostate

What is Prostate Hyperplasia?

Prostate Hyperplasia, also known as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that commonly occurs as men age. The prostate gland is a small walnut-shaped gland located below the bladder and surrounds the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body.

As the prostate enlarges, it can squeeze the urethra, causing urinary symptoms such as frequent urination, urgency, weak urine flow, difficulty starting urination, dribbling after urination, and the feeling of incomplete emptying of the bladder.

While Prostate Hyperplasia is not cancerous, it can cause bothersome urinary symptoms and, if left untreated, may lead to complications such as urinary tract infections, bladder stones, urinary retention, and kidney damage. Treatment options for Prostate Hyperplasia include medications, minimally invasive procedures, and surgery, depending on the severity of symptoms and the individual’s overall health.

What causes Prostate Hyperplasia?

The exact cause of Prostate Hyperplasia (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, BPH) is not fully understood, but it is believed to be primarily related to hormonal changes and aging. Here are some factors that may contribute to the development of BPH:

1. Hormonal Changes: Testosterone, the male sex hormone, is converted into dihydrotestosterone (DHT) by an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase. DHT is believed to play a role in prostate growth. As men age, the balance of hormones in the body changes, leading to an increase in DHT levels and potentially contributing to prostate enlargement.
2. Age: BPH is more common in older men. As men age, the prostate gland naturally continues to grow, which can lead to an enlarged prostate.
3. Family History: There may be a genetic predisposition to developing BPH. Men with close male relatives who have had BPH or prostate problems may have a higher risk of developing the condition themselves.
4. Hormonal Imbalance: Changes in the balance of hormones, such as a decrease in testosterone levels or an increase in estrogen levels, may contribute to prostate enlargement.
5. Chronic Inflammation: Chronic inflammation of the prostate gland (chronic prostatitis) may play a role in the development of BPH.
6. Lifestyle Factors: Certain lifestyle factors, such as obesity, lack of physical activity, and a diet high in fat and low in fruits and vegetables, may increase the risk of developing BPH.
7. Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease, may be associated with an increased risk of BPH.
8. Medications: Some medications, such as certain types of antihistamines and decongestants, may worsen urinary symptoms associated with BPH.

While these factors may contribute to the development of BPH, the exact cause is likely multifactorial and varies from person to person.

What are the symptoms of Prostate Hyperplasia?

The symptoms of Prostate Hyperplasia (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, BPH) can vary in severity from person to person. They primarily involve urinary problems due to the enlargement of the prostate gland. Common symptoms of BPH include:

1. Frequent Urination: Needing to urinate more often than usual, especially during the night (nocturia).
2. Urgency: Feeling a sudden and urgent need to urinate.
3. Weak Urine Stream: Having a weak or slow urine stream when urinating.
4. Difficulty Starting Urination: Difficulty initiating urination, often needing to strain or push to begin urinating.
5. Incomplete Emptying: Feeling like the bladder does not completely empty after urination.
6. Dribbling at the End of Urination: Urine dribbling or leaking after finishing urination.
7. Urinary Retention: Difficulty emptying the bladder completely, leading to a feeling of fullness or discomfort in the bladder.
8. Straining to Urinate: Needing to push or strain to empty the bladder.
9. Interrupted Urination: Urination may start and stop intermittently.
10. Urinary Incontinence: Leakage of urine, especially during activities such as coughing, sneezing, or lifting heavy objects.
11. Blood in Urine: In some cases, BPH may cause blood in the urine (hematuria).
12. Bladder Stones: BPH can increase the risk of developing bladder stones, which may cause pain and discomfort.
13. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): BPH can lead to incomplete emptying of the bladder, increasing the risk of urinary tract infections.
14. Bladder Pain: Some individuals with BPH may experience discomfort or pain in the bladder area.
15. Sexual Dysfunction: BPH may affect sexual function, including erectile dysfunction and ejaculation problems, although these symptoms are less common and typically occur in more advanced cases.

It’s important to note that not everyone with BPH will experience all of these symptoms, and the severity of symptoms can vary. Additionally, these symptoms can overlap with other urinary conditions, so it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and management.

Who said a return to perfect prostate health was impossible? Years of enlarged prostate misery addressed in weeks… No more swollen prostate gland – and no more frustrating peeing problems!
Click to see more detail on Video