Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
What is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia?
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition in men as they age. It occurs when the prostate gland increases in size, which can cause urinary problems.
Common Symptoms
- Frequent need to urinate, especially at night
- Difficulty in starting to urinate
- Weak or interrupted urine flow
- Feeling of not having completely emptied the bladder
- Leakage at the end of urination
Causes
The exact cause of BPH is not completely known, but it is believed to be related to hormonal changes in aging.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of BPH may include:
- Physical exam
- Medical history
- Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test
- Ultrasound Urine flow test
Treatment Options
- Medication:
- Alpha-blockers to relax prostate muscles
- 5-alpha reductase inhibitors to reduce prostate size
- Minimally invasive therapies:
- Treatments that reduce prostate size without surgery
- Surgery:
- Procedures such as transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) to remove prostatic tissue
Symptom Management Tips
- Limiting fluid intake at night
- Avoid alcohol and caffeine
- Maintaining a healthy diet
- Perform Kegel exercises to strengthen pelvic muscles
- Consult regularly with your doctor
When to Consult a Doctor
You should consult a physician if you experience:
- Pain or burning when urinating
- Blood in urine
- Inability to urinate
- Recurrent urinary tract infections
Importance of Medical Follow-Up
Regular follow-up with your doctor is crucial to managing BPH and preventing complications. Talk to your doctor about any changes in your symptoms or new concerns.
Contact
For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact [www.dzeus.com].
This publication is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a physician for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Dr. Heriberto Barreto Soto
Specialist in Internal Medicine and Obesity
Chief Medical Officer of Dzeus Health