Problems and Treatments
There are several common prostate complaints,
most of which can be quickly and easily treated.
Problems
- Enlarged Prostate or BPH
Enlarged Prostate or BPH
Enlarged prostate is often called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). BPH is not cancer and it does not raise your risk for prostate cancer in any way.
An enlarged prostate simply means that the prostate gland has grown in size. Although not a life threatening condition, BPH can cause problems, especially if the gland begins to press on the urethra which can result in urination and bladder problems.
The condition is very common amongst middle-aged and elderly men, with an estimated 50% of men having some evidence of BPH by age 50 years and 75% by age 80 years. In 40-50% of these men, BPH requires treatment. However, the condition is not dangerous and no risk factors have been identified with the complaint.
Symptoms
Men with an enlarged prostate gland often complain of the following symptoms:
- Difficulty passing water
- A problem emptying the bladder i.e. feeling like the bladder is not empty after you have been to the toilet.
- A weak flow of urine
- A frequent or urgent need to pass water
It is important to remember that not all urinary symptoms in men are the result of an enlarged prostate.
If you notice blood in your urine or experience any pain when passing water, it is important to have a full assessment to check the cause of the problem, which could be bladder or kidney related.
How is the condition diagnosed?
In order to assess size of the gland, a GP or specialist will need to examine the prostate. This can be done at the centre with a digital rectal examination (DRE). An ultrasound test can also be conducted which will provide an accurate indication of prostate volume.
Patients may be asked to give a urine or blood sample to check the function of the kidneys and rule out other problems, such as infection.
Treatment Options
Treatment options for BPH vary from case to case and are dependent on the individual involved and the size of their prostate.
Often symptoms can be treated with medication, especially if they are not too severe. Worse symptoms may need surgery.
Surgery is now much less complicated since the introduction of the latest laser technology to remove the diseased tissue.