Prostate enlargement is a natural phenomenon that can occur in any man over time. For most men, this process is symptomless. However, approximately thirty percent may experience complaints due to the enlarging prostate. An article about the symptoms and treatment.
Symptoms of prostate enlargement
The following symptoms are often observed with an enlarged prostate:
- Frequent urination, strong urgency, delayed or interrupted urine flow and dripping.
- Painful urination.
- Blood in the urine.
- Severe urges on several occasions, especially at night.
Causes of prostate enlargement
The cause is unknown, but male sex hormones may play a role in the development of this.Location of the prostate / Source: US National Cancer Institute, Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)
Prevention of prostate enlargement
Unfortunately, the condition cannot be prevented and is associated with aging.
Examination of prostate enlargement
The examination that must lead to a correct diagnosis consists of mapping the patient’s medical history and physical examination, including internal rectal examination. The doctor uses a finger to check whether the prostate is enlarged. Tests to measure the rate of urine flow can also be performed and the laboratory can examine the urine itself and perform a bacterial culture. Bladder pressure measurement can also provide information.
Treatment of prostate enlargement
There are a number of possible avenues to take for diagnosis:
- Treatment is not necessary if symptoms are mild.
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption and do not drink too much, especially in the evening.
- To shrink the prostate, finasteride (brand name Proscar) can be prescribed and terazosin (brand name Hytrin) to relieve urination forces.
- Removal of excess prostate gland tissue via transurethral resection (the so-called TURP method) is usually done. A thin viewing tube with a light source is inserted through the penis into the urethra. A small cutting instrument at the end of the tube is used to remove prostate tissue that is pressing on the urethra.
- Surgical removal through an incision in the abdominal wall may be necessary if the prostate is unusually large.
- Balloon dilation allows the narrowed urethra to be stretched by inserting a balloon into the urethra with a catheter and inflating it. However, this method cannot prevent recurrence of the complaints and is being used less and less.
- Antibiotics can be prescribed for bacterial infections.
Finally
See a doctor if you have symptoms of prostate enlargement.