What Are The Risk Factors For Enlarged Prostate
Researchers are still largely unclear on what causes the prostate to become enlarged;but risk factors include:
- Age:;As many as 90 percent of men over the age of 80 have an enlarged prostate.
- Family history:;Men who have a family history of the condition are more likely to suffer from it.
- Other health issues:;Men who suffer from;obesity, heart disease, or type 2 diabetes;have higher rates of an;enlarged prostate diagnoses.
Symptoms Of Prostate Cancer
- Frequent urge to pass urine, especially at night
- Weak or interrupted urine stream
- Pain or burning when passing urine
- Blood in the urine or semen
- Painful ejaculation
- Nagging pain in the back, hips, or pelvis
Prostate cancer can spread to the lymph nodes of the pelvis. Or it may spread throughout the body. It tends to spread to the bones. So bone pain, especially in the back, can be a symptom of advanced prostate cancer.
Treating Benign Prostate Enlargement
Treatment for an enlarged prostate is determined by the severity of your symptoms.
If you have mild to moderate;symptoms, you won’t receive any immediate medical treatment, but you’ll have regular check-ups to carefully monitor your prostate.
You’ll probably also be advised to make;lifestyle changes, such as limiting your caffeine and;alcohol intake, and exercising regularly,;to see if they improve your symptoms.
As well as;lifestyle changes, medication is usually recommended to treat moderate to severe symptoms of benign prostate enlargement.;Finasteride and dutasteride are medications;that are commonly used. They block the effects of a hormone called dihydrotestosterone on the prostate gland, which can reduce the size of the prostate and improve associated symptoms.
Alpha blockers may also be prescribed. They help to relax your bladder muscles, making it easier to pass urine. Tamsulosin and alfuzosin are two alpha blockers commonly used to treat benign prostate enlargement.
Surgery is usually only recommended for moderate to severe symptoms of benign prostate enlargement that have failed to respond to medication.
Read more about treating benign prostate enlargement
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How Might An Enlarged Prostate Affect My Life
Having an enlarged prostate affects men in different ways. Some men can manage mild symptoms and dont need treatment. Other men find they need to stay near a toilet. This can make it difficult to work, drive, be outdoors and attend social events. If you need the toilet a lot during the night, this can affect your sleep and make you feel more tired during the day.
Some men with an enlarged prostate find their symptoms improve over time without treatment. But for most, the symptoms will stay the same or slowly start to cause more problems over time unless they have;treatment.
Men Sometimes Wary Of Bringing Up Problems
Lets be honest: men often dont want to talk about some things and that includes prostate health. That is why I am addressing this column to not only men, but women, too, so they are aware of issues the men in their lives may be dealing with and perhaps encourage them to seek medical attention.
The prostate is a walnut-sized gland that is a part of the male reproductive system and sits below the bladder. Prostate gland enlargement is a common condition men face as they get older. An enlarged prostate gland causes uncomfortable urinary symptoms, such as blocking the flow of urine out of the bladder, and problems with the bladder, urinary tract or kidneys. Common symptoms include more frequent or urgent need to urinate, increased frequency of needing to use the bathroom at night, difficulty starting urination and weak urine stream or a stream that starts and stops. Symptoms worsen over time. Anyone with these symptoms should talk them over with his doctor. Left untreated, an enlarged prostate can lead to a sudden inability to urinate, cause urinary tract infections and bladder or kidney damage.
If a patient has an enlarged prostate, medication is normally the first treatment option. Several different types of medication either relax the bladder neck muscles and muscle fibers in the prostate or that shrink the size of the prostate. If a patient has severe symptoms or medication is not working, minimally invasive surgery options are available.
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About Half Of Men Older Than 50 Have An Enlarged Prostate Here Are Some Of The Basic Facts You Need To Know About This Common Condition
As men age, many experience prostate gland enlargement. This condition is known as benign prostatic hyperplasia .
The prostate gland surrounds the urethra, the hollow tube that carries urine out of the body. When the prostate gets bigger, it can squeeze or partially block the urethra, which leads to problems urinating.
BPH is quite common in older men. In fact, the condition impacts about 50% of men between the ages of 51 and 60. For men 80 and older, the prevalence of BPH is approximately 90%, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.
What Are The Symptoms Of Bph
As the prostate grows larger, it constricts the urethra. Because the urethra carries urine from the bladder to the outside of your body, this constriction causes different symptoms, including:
- Difficulting starting to urinate
- Frequently getting up at night to urinate
- Inability to empty the bladder
- Pain during urination or after ejaculation
An enlarged prostate can also cause changes in your urines color or smell.;
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When Does A Prostate Problem Need Treatment
BPH requires treatment only if the symptoms are severe enough to be troublesome to the patient, if the function of the urinary tract is seriously affected or if there are other complications, such as bleeding, kidney infections or kidney damage. An enlarged prostate by itself is not enough reason to need treatment.
What Causes Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
The cause of benign prostatic hyperplasia is not well understood; however, it occurs mainly in older men. Benign prostatic hyperplasia does not develop in men whose testicles were removed before puberty. For this reason, some researchers believe factors related to aging and the testicles may cause benign prostatic hyperplasia.
Throughout their lives, men produce testosterone, a male hormone, and small amounts of estrogen, a female hormone. As men age, the amount of active testosterone in their blood decreases, which leaves a higher proportion of estrogen. Scientific studies have suggested that benign prostatic hyperplasia may occur because the higher proportion of estrogen within the prostate increases the activity of substances that promote prostate cell growth.
Another theory focuses on dihydrotestosterone , a male hormone that plays a role in prostate development and growth. Some research has indicated that even with a drop in blood testosterone levels, older men continue to produce and accumulate high levels of DHT in the prostate. This accumulation of DHT may encourage prostate cells to continue to grow. Scientists have noted that men who do not produce DHT do not develop benign prostatic hyperplasia.
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How Is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Treated
Treatment options for benign prostatic hyperplasia may include
- lifestyle changes
- minimally invasive procedures
- surgery
A health care provider treats benign prostatic hyperplasia based on the severity of symptoms, how much the symptoms affect a mans daily life, and a mans preferences.
Men may not need treatment for a mildly enlarged prostate unless their symptoms are bothersome and affecting their quality of life. In these cases, instead of treatment, a urologist may recommend regular checkups. If benign prostatic hyperplasia symptoms become bothersome or present a health risk, a urologist most often recommends treatment.
Medications For Enlarged Prostate Linked To Heart Failure Risk
February 22, 2021 Widely used medications for benign prostatic hyperplasia also known as enlarged prostate may be associated with a small, but significant increase in the probability of developing heart failure, suggests a study in The Journal of Urology®, Official Journal of the American Urological Association . The journal is pub lished in the Lippincott portfolio by Wolters Kluwer.
The risk is highest in men taking a type of BPH medication called alpha-blockers , rather than a different type called 5-alpha reductase inhibitors , according to the new research by D. Robert Siemens, MD, and colleagues of Queens University, Kingston, Ont., Canada. While no one should stop taking their BPH medications based on these results, our study contributes new evidence for understanding the complex interaction of factors affecting heart disease risk in men with BPH, Dr. Siemens comments.
Do BPH drugs affect heart failure risk? New long-term, follow-up data
Benign prostatic hyperplasia is a very common condition in men, especially at older ages. It occurs when the prostate gland becomes enlarged, causing urinary symptoms . Millions of men take medications to reduce BPH symptoms most commonly ABs, 5-ARIs, or a combination of the two.
Heart failure risk was higher with older nonselective ABs compared to newer selective ABs. Risk was higher in men taking ABs for a prolonged time: 14 months or longer.
DOI: 10.1097/JU.0000000000001561
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What Are Symptoms Of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Symptoms of BPH include:
- Waking up at night several times to urinate.
- Not being able to control starting and stopping of urination.
- Feeling like your bladder is not really empty.
- Having a weak urine stream that may start and stop and may dribble at the end.
- Feeling pain or burning while urinating.
Enlarged prostate blocking the flow of urine through the urethra.
Dangers Of An Enlarged Prostate
Did you know that as men age, your risk for developing an enlarged prostate increases quickly? By age 55, about 25% of all men will have developed benign prostatic hyperplasia , commonly referred to as an enlarged prostate. By age 60, this number rises to 50%, and by age 85, at least 90% of men have BPH.;
Although an enlarged prostate isnt the same as prostate cancer and doesnt increase your risk of developing prostate cancer, that doesnt mean BPH is danger-free. At Alate Health, were committed to providing the safest and most effective treatments for BPH to men in and around Houston, Texas.;;
Board-certified radiologist Andrew Doe, MD, understands the frustration the symptoms of an enlarged prostate cause and the risks untreated BPH brings. Our team has put together this informative article to help you better understand BPH and the dangers leaving it untreated may cause.;;;
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Gp Examination And Tests
A GP will ask about your symptoms and concerns, and their impact on your quality of life.
You may be asked to complete a chart that records how much liquid you usually drink, how much urine you pass, how often you have to pee on a daily basis and whether you have any leakage.
The GP may do a physical examination. They may examine your stomach and genital area.
They may also feel your prostate gland through the wall of your bottom . This is called a;rectal examination.
The GP;may order;a blood test to check that your kidneys are working properly.
They may;advise you to have a;prostate-specific antigen blood test to rule out prostate cancer.
You may be offered a urine;test,;for example to check for sugar or blood in your pee. This is to see if you have diabetes or an infection.
How Does Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy Work
The mechanism of action of PEMF on canine BPH is not exactly known and could involve several modalities. The electromagnetic field is produced by a device that reduces inflammation by promoting growth of new blood vessels, dilation of blood vessels, and tissue remodeling. The overall effect is reduction in tissue hypoxia. By reducing inflammation, PEMF may prevent complications or may play a role in reducing changes linked to BPH and related conditions. By producing an increase in blood circulation, PEMF may also help to prevent secondary complications caused by reduced arterial blood flow such as prostatitis and improve BPH symptoms.
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Beaumont Health Offers Revolutionary New Treatment For Enlarged Prostates
Monday, July 19, 2021
Minimally invasive, water jet robotic procedure shrinks prostate while improving, preserving function
Beaumont Health is the first and only health system in Michigan to offer a novel new treatment for patients with enlarged prostates, particularly those with hard-to-treat, very large prostates.
The PROCEPT BioRobotics BPH Robotic System is a computer-guided treatment system for benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH. The procedure uses aquablation therapy, or small water jets, to remove sections of the prostate. Urologists at Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak;began treating patients with the system in November 2020.
Beaumont now offers the most comprehensive treatment options available for patients with enlarged prostates, said Beaumont urologist Dr. Jason Hafron. The computer can actually sculpt the prostate to preserve ejaculatory function, which is not possible with the older procedures.
There are no incisions during the procedure, and it can be completed in approximately 40 minutes.
Were leaping ahead with this technology, especially for men with very large prostates, added Dr. Hafron.
One of Beaumonts first patients, Joe Rice, 67, of Waterford, had what is considered a super enlarged prostate. Where a typical healthy adult males prostate weighs 40 grams, Rices was measured at 129 grams. The procedure reduced his prostate by about 65%, or 84 grams, making it much closer to normal size with an open channel, said Dr. Hafron.
Is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia A Risk For Prostate Cancer
There is no evidence that BPH increases the risk of developing prostate cancer. However, the symptoms of BPH and prostate cancer are similar. The American Urological Association and the American Cancer Society recommend annual prostate screenings for men ages 55 to 69. Men at high risk such as African-American men and men with a family history of prostate cancer should begin screening at 40. It is important that doctors and patients discuss the screening process and possible inaccurate results while arriving at a decision to screen for prostate cancer.
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Questions To Ask Yourself About Enlarged Prostate Treatment
When you discuss the treatment options for an enlarged prostate with your doctor, keep these points in mind:
- How much are my symptoms bothering me?
- Do they keep me from doing things I enjoy?
- How long do I want to deal with them?
- Am I willing to accept small risks to improve my symptoms?
- Do I understand the risks?
- Am I ready to do something about this problem?
Study: Enlarged Prostate May Not Increase Risk For Cancer
Does having an enlarged prostate doom you to prostate cancer?
Far from it, a new study suggests.
Also called benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH, the condition may actually provide some protection for men from developing prostate cancer, researchers report.
“Men are often anxious about prostate cancer, as it is the second most common cancer in men, with some worrying BPH increases their risk of prostate cancer,” said lead researcher Dr. Kiran Nandalur. He is vice chief of diagnostic radiology and molecular imaging at Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak, Mich.
“Some previous studies have demonstrated BPH may increase the risk of cancer, given common driving forces such as genetics, hormones and inflammation. Our study should alleviate their concern, as BPH may decrease their odds of prostate cancer,” Nandalur said.
BPH is common in aging men and can cause a frequent need to urinate, often at night, or a weak flow of urine. This is because the central part of the prostate enlarges and can block urine from leaving the bladder.
Surprisingly, as the prostate continues to enlarge, the odds of prostate cancer goes down, Nandalur explained.
For the study, Nandalur’s team collected data on 405 men with BPH and looked for evidence of prostate cancer on MRIs of prostate tissue.
“I would approach this with extreme caution,” D’Amico said.
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Common Symptoms Of Bph
An enlarged prostate affects urination several ways.
If you notice any of the following symptoms talk to Cleveland Urology:
- Difficulty starting to urinate
- A weak or interrupted urinary stream
- Frequent urination sometimes several times an hour and during the night
- The inability to completely empty the bladder
- Feeling that you need to urgently go
Unless you begin some treatment for BPH symptoms, it can affect your life in significant ways. Many men avoid social situations for fear they may not make it to a bathroom. Urge incontinence can become a constant part of a mans life causing depression and loneliness.
Although having an enlarged prostate does not increase your risk for prostate cancer, other serious complications can occur, including urinary tract infections, bladder and kidney damage, bladder stones, or a sudden inability to urinate.
There are multiple treatments available for the symptoms of BPH including medications, non-invasive procedures and surgery.
If you are experiencing the symptoms of an enlarged prostate, contact Cleveland Urology at to schedule a visit.
What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of An Enlarged Prostate
An enlarged prostate is the most common cause of urinary problems in men as they get older. Possible symptoms include:
- a weak flow when you urinate
- a feeling that your bladder hasnt emptied properly
- difficulty starting to urinate
- dribbling urine after you finish urinating
- needing to urinate more often, especially at night
- a sudden urge to urinate you may sometimes leak before you get to the toilet.
You may not get all of these symptoms, and some men with an enlarged prostate dont get any symptoms at all. These symptoms can also be caused by other things, such as cold weather, anxiety, other health problems, lifestyle factors, and some medicines.;Blood in your urine may be a symptom of an enlarged prostate. But this is rare and is usually caused by something else.;
If you have any of the symptoms above, you should visit your GP to find out what may be causing them.
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