Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a prevalent condition characterized by the non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. The prostate gland, a vital part of the male reproductive system, surrounds the urethra and It produces a fluid that is part of semen and helps nourish and transport sperm. With age, the prostate gland naturally undergoes an enlargement process. In some cases, this enlargement can cause the prostate to squeeze the urethra, leading to various urinary symptoms and discomfort.

This condition affects a significant number of men, with estimates suggesting that over 40% of men in their 50s and more than 80% of men in their 70s and 80s have BPH. Although it is not a life-threatening condition, BPH can cause significant discomfort and affect the quality of life of those who suffer from it. BPH symptoms can significantly impact a man's quality of life. The disruptive nature of urinary symptoms can affect sleep patterns, daily activities, work productivity, and overall well-being. Seeking timely medical attention and appropriate treatment can help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.

Symptoms and Signs of BPH 

Symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) can vary among individuals but commonly involve urinary problems. As the enlarged prostate gland puts pressure on the urethra, it can lead to the following symptoms:

• Urinary Frequency: Men with BPH may experience an increased frequency of urination, needing to urinate more often throughout the day and night.
• Urgency: There may be a sense of urgency to urinate, where the need to urinate feels immediate and difficult to delay.
• Weak Urine Flow: BPH can cause a weak urine stream, where the flow of urine is slow and lacks force.
• Difficulty Initiating Urination: Men with BPH may have trouble starting the flow of urine, requiring more time and effort to initiate urination.
• Incomplete Bladder Emptying: A feeling of incomplete bladder emptying is common with BPH. It may feel as though the bladder is not fully emptied even after urination.
• Nocturia: BPH can lead to nocturia, which is the need to wake up multiple times during the night to urinate.
• Urinary Tract Infections: In some cases, BPH can increase the risk of urinary tract infections, leading to symptoms such as pain or burning during urination, cloudy or bloody urine, and frequent urinary tract infections.

These urinary symptoms can have a significant impact on daily life, causing discomfort, interrupting sleep patterns, and affecting overall quality of life. While BPH shares similar urinary symptoms with prostate cancer, BPH is a non-cancerous condition. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis. If left untreated, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) can lead to worsening urinary symptoms, urinary retention, bladder stones, urinary tract infections (UTIs), bladder damage, kidney problems, and a decreased quality of life.

Causes of BPH 

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is primarily caused by age-related changes in the prostate gland. As men age, the balance of hormones in their bodies shifts, leading to an increase in the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone derived from testosterone. DHT stimulates the growth of prostate cells, resulting in the enlargement of the prostate gland. While age is the primary risk factor for developing BPH, other factors may contribute to its development or worsening of symptoms. These include:

• Hormonal Changes: Besides age-related hormonal changes, other hormonal imbalances or changes in the levels of certain hormones may also influence the development of BPH. For example, high levels of estrogen or low levels of testosterone relative to estrogen may contribute to prostate gland enlargement
• Family History: Having a family history of BPH or prostate problems may increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
• Obesity: Studies have suggested a link between obesity and an increased risk of BPH. Excess body weight may promote hormonal imbalances and inflammation, contributing to prostate enlargement.
• Lifestyle Factors: Certain lifestyle choices, such as a sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, a diet high in fat and red meat, and smoking may play a role in the development of BPH or the worsening of symptoms.
• Other Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease, have been associated with an increased risk of BPH.

Chronic Inflammation: Chronic inflammation of the prostate gland, known as prostatitis, has been associated with an increased risk of BPH. Inflammation can lead to tissue damage and alterations in the structure of the prostate, contributing to the development of BPH.

While these factors can increase the risk of developing BPH, the exact cause of the condition is not fully understood.BPH is a multifactorial condition and individual cases may involve a combination of different factors including hormonal, genetic, and environmental factors that contribute to the development and progression of BPH. Regular prostate screenings and discussions with a healthcare professional can help assess your risk and provide appropriate management strategies.

BPH is a common condition that can have a significant impact on a man's quality of life. However, with the range of treatment options available, including non-surgical and minimally invasive procedures, managing the symptoms of BPH is possible. If you are experiencing any symptoms of BPH, it is important to speak with a urologist who can help you determine the best course of action for your individual needs. Don't let BPH hold you back from living life to the fullest. Contact us at MASSH today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a better quality of life.