Enlarged Prostate: FAQs
When does prostate enlargement happen?
Overall, the number of men with BPH increases progressively with age. By age 60, 50% of men will have some signs of BPH. By age 85, 90% of men will have signs of the condition. About one third of these men will develop symptoms that require treatment. 1
How does the doctor detect prostate enlargement?
A doctor usually can detect an enlarged prostate by rectal exam. The doctor also may examine the urethra, prostate, and bladder using a cytoscope, an instrument that is inserted through the penis.
What is benign prostatic hyperplasia?
Benign prostatic hyperplasia is nonmalignant (noncancerous) enlargement of the prostate gland, a common occurrence in older men. It is also known as benign prostatic hypertrophy and abbreviated as BPH and as nodular hyperplasia of the prostate.
When does benign prostatic hyperplasia start?
BPH generally begins in a man’s 30s, evolves slowly and only causes symptoms after 501.
What happens in BPH?
In BPH, the prostate gland grows in size. It may compress the urethra which courses through the center of the prostate. This can impede the flow of urine from the bladder through the urethra to the outside. It can cause urine to backup in the bladder (retention) and the need for frequent urination. If severe enough, complete blockage of the urethra can occur, which can injure the kidneys.
How common is BPH?
BPH is extremely common. Half of all men over 50 develop symptoms of BPH, but only 10% need medical or surgical interventionv1.
Is BPH a type of cancer?
No!!! BPH is completely benign. It is not a precursor (a forerunner) to prostate cancer.
Is BPH always treated?
No. Treatment of BPH is usually reserved for men with significant symptoms. Watchful waiting with medical monitoring once a year is appropriate for most men with BPH.
How is BPH treated?
There are several different ways to treat BPH:
- Watchful Waiting is often chosen by men who are not bothered by symptoms of BPH. They have no treatment but get regular checkups and wait to see whether or not the condition gets worse.
- Drug Therapy is typically the first treatment that a doctor will prescribe for men who are experiencing symptoms of BPH. Drug therapy is not a cure, but can reduce symptoms and help to slow the growth of the prostate.
- Surgery is the treatment most likely to relieve BPH symptoms. However, it also has the most complications. There are various procedures offered today, some with fewer risks of complications. If your doctor recommends that you need surgery, ask him/her about laser surgery using the PowerSuite™ holmium laser and if it is right for you.
Men should review the options with their doctor and discuss the benefits/risks of each treatment option. If you are experiencing symptoms associated with BPH or any urology related condition you should consult with your physician; it is important to see your doctor as early as possible.
Find a physician in your area1 - WebMD Enlarged Prostate Information and AUA's UrologyHealth.org - Adult Conditions, BPH