BENIGN PROSTATIC HYPERPLASIA (BPH)

Do you know what a prostate is?

The prostate is a small gland about the size of a walnut. It is located below the urinary bladder, behind the pubic symphysis, in front of the rectum, and around the urethra. The prostate releases fluids that contribute to the human ejaculate. This prostatic fluid helps to maintain the viability of sperm.

The prostate gland is undoubtedly a significant structure in the male reproductive anatomy. Unfortunately, in many men, it can become a source of concern.

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

The average prostate measures about 3.5cm by 2.5cm and weighs about 18g to 26g. However, it begins to gradually increase in size after the age of 40 years. This increase in size is what is referred to as hyperplasia and can produce some unpleasant signs and symptoms.

Risk Factors for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

Aging
Genetics
Family history
Prolonged exposure to testosterone (Eunuchs who were castrated before puberty do not develop BPH. People with androgen-related disorders do not develop BPH).
Diabetes and use of antidiabetic medicine
Excess alcohol and caffeine
Obesity
Autoimmune disorders of the prostate
Chronic inflammation of the prostate

Signs and Symptoms of BPH

The signs and symptoms of BPH are mainly urinary symptoms because the enlarged prostate and its surrounding capsule transmit the pressure against the urinary bladder. They include:

Frequent urination
Urgent urination (You have to go NOW; you can’t hold the urine for long)
Urge incontinence (If you don’t go to the toilet now, you can’t be held accountable for what happens next)
Frequent urination in the middle of the night
Weak urine stream
Involuntary starting and stopping of urine flow
Feeling like the bladder is not fully empty after urination
Urine dribbles into underwear after urination

Complications of BPH

If Benign prostatic enlargement is not treated on time, it can lead to:

Retention of urine in the bladder and difficulty to urinate (there may be associated pain)
Recurrent urinary tract infection
Blood in the urine
Kidney failure