Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: What are the Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

by | Apr 1, 2019 | Surgery

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Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a condition that is common among older men. When your prostate gland is enlarged, you may experience urinary symptoms, such as blocked urine flow. BPH may also cause other health issues like urinary, bladder, and kidney problems.

Causes of BPH

Urine is transported from the bladder and out of the urethra by a tube that makes its way through the prostate’s center. An enlarged prostrate can block the normal flow of urine. Progressive prostate growth is typical in a lot of men. But for some, the continued growth significantly enlarges their prostate that it starts to block the flow of their urine. The exact cause of BPH still eludes doctors and researchers. However, it is believed that it could be because of the changes in sex hormone balance as men age.

Risk Factors

Certain risk factors can increase your risk of developing

BPH. These are:

  • Men who are over 60 years old
  • The Family history of prostate problems
  • Men with medical conditions such as heart disease or diabetes
  • Obesity
  • Symptoms
  • BPH Symptoms may vary from person to person, but they tend to get worse over time, especially if left untreated. Some of the common Benign prostatic hyperplasia symptoms include:
  • Nocturia or the frequent need to urinate at night
  • Urgent need to urinate
  • Urine stream is either weak or stops and starts mid-stream
  • Urine still dribbles even after urination
  • Difficulty starting urination and inability to empty the content of the bladder completely
  • Treatments
  • Your doctor in Pittsburgh will determine the best treatment for you depending on several factors, such as your age, overall health, prostate’s size, and your benign prostatic hyperplasia symptoms.
  • Treatment may include medication and minimally invasive therapies, as well as surgery for severe cases. However, BPH medication can cause many side-effects that can seriously compromise your health. Likewise, surgery is associated with many possible complications. UroLift System, on the other hand, is a minimally invasive treatment for BPH that has lower potential risks and complications. Ask your doctor about this treatment procedure to know if you qualify.

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