AK Twisted Wellness Guide: Understanding Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

 Understanding Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

Welcome to Aktwisted Wellness Guide! In this edition, we delve into a prevalent yet often misunderstood condition affecting older men: Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), commonly known as an enlarged prostate. If you’ve ever wondered about those frequent bathroom trips or noticed discussions among older men about urinary issues, chances are BPH is part of the conversation.

What is BPH?

Benign prostatic hyperplasia or hypertrophy (BPH) refers to the enlargement of the prostate gland, a common occurrence as men age. Research indicates that approximately half of men aged 51 to 60 experience BPH, with the prevalence increasing to about 90% in men over 80 years old.

As men age, hormonal changes, particularly involving testosterone, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), and estrogen, are believed to contribute to the growth of the prostate gland. This growth can exert pressure on the urethra and the base of the bladder, leading to symptoms like frequent urination, especially at night.

How do you know if you have BPH?

Recognizing the signs of BPH involves understanding its symptoms, which may include frequent urination, nocturia (increased urination at night), difficulty initiating urination, weak urine stream, intermittent urination, and the sensation of incomplete bladder emptying.

Diagnosis typically begins with discussing these symptoms with a healthcare provider, followed by a digital rectal exam (DRE) to assess prostate size and any abnormalities. Additional tests such as urinalysis, blood tests including prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing, may be conducted to rule out other conditions.

Medical treatments for BPH

Treatment options for BPH aim to enhance the quality of life by alleviating bothersome symptoms. For mild to moderate cases, watchful waiting, incorporating lifestyle modifications such as dietary changes, fluid management, and regular exercise, may be recommended.

Medical interventions include alpha-blockers, which relax prostate and bladder muscles to improve urine flow, 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors that reduce prostate size by blocking DHT production, and phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitors like tadalafil, which can also alleviate urinary symptoms.

For severe cases or those unresponsive to medications, minimally invasive or surgical procedures such as transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), prostatic urethral lift (PUL), and laser therapy may be considered.

BPH doesn’t need to stop you

While BPH is a common aspect of aging for many men, it shouldn’t hinder your quality of life. By staying informed and collaborating with healthcare providers, effective management strategies can be implemented to address symptoms and improve overall well-being.

DISCLAIMER

The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider for personalized medical guidance and care.

Sources:

1. McVary, K. T. (2012). BPH: epidemiology and comorbidities. American journal of managed care, 18(3 Suppl), S61–S66.
2. Parsons, J. K. (2007). Benign prostatic hyperplasia and male lower urinary tract symptoms: epidemiology and risk factors. Current bladder dysfunction reports, 2(4), 212–218.
3. Roehrborn, C. G. (2008). Benign prostatic hyperplasia: an overview. Reviews in urology, 10 Suppl 2(Suppl 2), S3–S14.
4. Berry, S. J., Coffey, D. S., Walsh, P. C., & Ewing, L. L. (1984). The development of human benign prostatic hyperplasia with age. The Journal of urology, 132(3), 474–479.
5. McVary, K. T. (2011). BPH: rationale for treatment with PDE5 inhibitors. Reviews in urology, 13(2), e56–e61.

Remember, your health is a priority. Take proactive steps to address any concerns and enjoy a fulfilling life. Visit Aktwisted Wellness for more insightful articles and take charge of your well-being today!