The prostate is a gland located in the male reproductive system that produces the fluid used to transport sperm during ejaculation. It encircles the urethra and bladder.
Prostate gland enlargement, or Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), is a disorder that affects many men as they get older. A swollen prostate gland can produce unpleasant urinary symptoms, such as obstructing urine passage out of the bladder. Additionally, it can result in the bladder, urinary tract, or renal problems. This disorder is not malignant and does not raise the likelihood of getting prostate cancer.
The term “enlarged prostate” refers to a prostate gland that is larger than its normal size of 18-22 grams
The exact reason for the enlargement of the prostate gland remains uncertain. Prostatic enlargement is thought to be a result of aging. Aging results in changes to the cellular structure of the testicles (which has a role in prostate gland growth) and testosterone levels in the body.
The development of benign prostatic hyperplasia does not occur in men who have had their testicles removed at a young age due to a disorder like testicular cancer.
Prostate gland enlargement is effectively treated with a variety of options, including medicines, minimally invasive therapy, and surgery. It is important to discuss your symptoms and any health conditions as well as any personal preferences you have with your doctor in order to determine the best course of action.
Common signs of prostatic enlargement:
Although the intensity of symptoms differs amongst individuals with enlarged prostate glands, symptoms generally intensify over time. BPH is frequently manifested by the following signs and symptoms:
- Urine dribbling after urination is completed
- Feel as if there is still some urine in the bladder after emptying it completely.
- A weak urine stream or a stream that intermittently flows
- Frequent urination at night.
- Inability to initiate urinating
- A sudden need to relieve oneself.
How to diagnose?
A rectal examination can be used to determine if a patient has a problem with their prostate. Additionally, the following tests may be required:
- Urinary flow measurement – Uroflowmetry
- Test for post-void residual urine
- Urine examinations on a routine and microscopic basis to rule for infection
- Prostate-Specific Antigen Urine Culture Test to rule out the potential of prostate cancer
- Urea and creatinine levels in the blood
Symptoms may eventually stabilise and even improve in some individuals over time.
Generally, the treatment approach is determined by the strength and severity of the symptoms and their impact on the patient’s daily life.
In some circumstances, patients are urged to exercise caution and refrain from therapy if the symptoms are not too troublesome. In some circumstances, self-care, medication, or surgery may be necessary.
Several conditions can mimic the symptoms of an enlarged prostate, including the following:
- Infection of the urinary tract
- Prostate inflammation (prostatitis)
- Urinary sphincter constriction (urethral stricture)
- Scarring around the neck of the bladder as a result of past surgery
- Stones in the bladder or kidneys
- Issues with the bladder’s nerves
- Prostate or bladder cancer
Following are a few general self-care tips for men with symptoms of prostate enlargement:
- Urinate immediately when feeling the urge; do not hold urine.
- Schedule urination times and adhere to them even when you do not feel the need.
- Caffeine and alcohol consumption should be limited in the late evening hours.
- Avoid consuming an excessive amount of water or any other liquids in one sitting.
- 2 to 3 hours before bedtime, limit fluid consumption.
- Without a doctor’s prescription, avoid decongestants and antihistamines, as they tend to exacerbate the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia.
- Maintain a suitable level of warmth in chilly weather, as cold temperatures tend to exacerbate symptoms.
- Maintain an active lifestyle and engage in regular exercise.
- Strengthen your pelvic floor by performing Kegel’s exercise.
- Reduce stress and tension, as they frequently result in increased urine frequency.
Following are a few general self-care tips for men with symptoms of prostate enlargement:
- Urinate immediately when feeling the urge; do not hold urine.
- Schedule urination times and adhere to them even when you do not feel the need.
- Caffeine and alcohol consumption should be limited in the late evening hours.
- Avoid consuming an excessive amount of water or any other liquids in one sitting.
- 2 to 3 hours before bedtime, limit fluid consumption.
- Without a doctor’s prescription, avoid decongestants and antihistamines, as they tend to exacerbate the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia.
- Maintain a suitable level of warmth in chilly weather, as cold temperatures tend to exacerbate symptoms.
- Maintain an active lifestyle and engage in regular exercise.
- Strengthen your pelvic floor by performing Kegel’s exercise.
- Reduce stress and tension, as they frequently result in increased urine frequency.
Prostate surgery may be advised for those who suffer from incontinence, blood in the urine, urinary retention, recurring infections, kidney damage, or other uncomfortable problems that do not respond to medication.
Different procedures can be indicated based on the severity of the symptoms as well as the size and shape of the prostate gland. To treat BPH, the most frequent operation is transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP).
In this treatment, the prostate gland is removed by inserting a scope into the penis.
Men who have been diagnosed with prostatic hyperplasia for an extended period of time and whose symptoms continue to deteriorate are at risk of having urinary tract infections, significant kidney damage, and blood in the urine.
Even after undergoing surgical surgery, benign prostatic hyperplasia may reappear. In the event of a fever, chills, pain in the back or sides of the abdomen, or the presence of blood in the urine, one should see a doctor immediately. Modern medical treatment can help reverse prostate enlargement if it is initiated at the appropriate period.. the proper moment.
When should you consult the doctor?
If you experience any urinary symptoms such as an increase in frequency, a sudden pressing urge to pass pee, waking up more than once to visit the restroom, a poor stream, straining to pass urine, or a feeling of incomplete bladder emptying, you should consult a urologist near you and undergo a uroflowmetry test and ultrasound to diagnose and treat this common disease.
Galaxy Multispeciality Hospital boasts a number of departments with advanced infrastructure and experienced healthcare professionals.
Our state-of-the-art clinical laboratories can assist in discovering a wide range of illnesses with the use of modern diagnostics and technology.