Prostate Enlargement
Benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH, is the enlargement of the prostate. It often occurs when your prostate gland’s cells start to multiply. The additional cells that are produced cause the organ to swell, which squeezes your urethra and limits urine flow. While it isn’t similar to nor increases prostate cancer risks, it can lead to complications, such as UTI, kidney stones, kidney damage, urinary tract bleeding, and prostate infection. As a result, it can impact the quality and standards of life.
BPH is generally considered to be a normal part of aging. While the exact triggers are unknown, the change in the sex hormones of males resulting from age is a factor. In addition, those with family histories of prostate issues or testicle abnormalities are at greater risk of the condition than those without. Although mild initially, its symptoms can increase in severity if left untreated. Some of these include the inability to empty the bladder, nocturia, urinary stream dribbling, straining during urination, weak urinary streams, frequent urination urges, pain when urinating, and blood in your urine.
Treatments typically begin with lifestyle adjustments and self-care. Medication like alpha-1 blockers, hormone reduction, and antibiotics may be prescribed if symptoms persist.
