While the symptoms may be similar, having an enlarged prostate differs from having prostate cancer. Enlarged Prostate, otherwise known as benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH) is often uncomfortable but is not a fatal disease. However, it can lead to complications, though research shows it does not lead to prostate cancer. The prognosis is good when treated, but when untreated it may lead to bladder stones, damage to the bladder, bladder and kidney failure, urinary tract infections or other medical concerns.
The prostate gland is found between the bladder and the penis so when it becomes enlarged the pressure builds and makes it difficult for the bladder to function normally. This becomes apparent during urination since the bladder stores urine that is eventually released through the urethra. The increased difficulty causes the bladder muscles to work harder than they should, making the bladder more sensitive. The increased sensitivity causes more frequent urination. In the long term, the bladder can become severely stressed and cause problems in the storage and release of urine.
What Causes Enlargement Of The Prostate?
Enlarged Prostate is prevalent in men over 40 years of age. And while there is no single reason Enlarged Prostate (BPH) occurs, it seems mainly connected to specific hormonal issues. It’s widely understood that the state of hormone production of testosterone and other androgens affects the development of Enlarged Prostate (BPH). When the prostate converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), additional tissues form in the area surrounding the prostate. The overproduction of androgens and increased conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT) causes thickening of the tissues that line the area around the prostate.
Research suggests that weakening of the blood vessels associated with old age causes a decrease in blood flow which interrupts the supply of oxygen reaching the prostate. This causes the gland to become enlarged.
Diagnostic Methods For BPH
Three primary methods are used to assess the presence of Enlarged Prostate (BPH). The physician’s initial step is to do a digital rectal exam. The second is to have blood and urine tests done. And finally, a visual is gained of the urinary tract and prostate through ultrasound imaging. Taken together, they will reveal the presence of Enlarged Prostate (BPH) if it exists, and its stage of development. Through these tests, the doctor can rule out other prostate problems like infections or even prostate cancer as being the cause of the symptoms.
Modes of Treatment For BPH
The testing process gives the necessary information for diagnosis and also for eventual treatment. Treatment may be as simple as taking oral medication or it may require a surgical procedure. It is worthwhile to bring up the subject of prostate health at your next annual medical exam. But if you think you may have symptoms of Enlarge Prostate (BPH) it is all the better to book your appointment sooner. An early diagnosis is optimal when treating prostate problems, since the physician has more choices for treatment, and early detection ensures that it remains a more readily treatable, minor issue.
