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Understanding Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
Introduction to BPH
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, commonly known as BPH, is a condition often referred to as an enlarged prostate. This non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland is a common condition as men age. The prostate, a walnut-sized gland, plays a crucial role in the male reproductive system by producing seminal fluid, which mixes with sperm during ejaculation.Prevalence of BPH
BPH is a widespread condition. According to the Urology Care Foundation, about 50% of men over the age of 50 experience an enlarged prostate. This percentage increases to over 90% by the age of 80. It's important to note that BPH is benign and different from prostate cancer, although it's possible for someone to experience both conditions. However, having BPH does not imply the presence of prostate cancer.Symptoms of BPH
Individuals with BPH may experience various symptoms that can affect their quality of life. These include:- A slow urinary stream.
- Increased frequency and urgency of urination.
- A feeling of incomplete bladder emptying.
- Frequent waking at night to urinate.
- More severe symptoms can include the inability to urinate, urinary tract infections, or blood in the urine.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Developing urinary symptoms is often mistaken as a normal part of aging. However, effective treatments are available. The diagnostic process may involve:- A genital examination.
- Questionnaires to assess urinary symptoms.
- Blood tests, including PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) screening for prostate cancer.
- Ultrasound of the bladder to check urine evacuation and prostate size.
- Cystoscopy, which involves using a camera to examine the prostate and bladder anatomy.
Conclusion
BPH is a common condition among aging men but does not necessarily indicate prostate cancer. It's crucial for individuals experiencing urinary symptoms to seek medical attention, as various treatment options can significantly improve their quality of life.Sources
- ypo.education - Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Video
- mayoclinic.org - Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) - Diagnosis and Treatment
- youtube.com - Surgical Treatment Options for Benign Prostatic Enlargement
- urologyhealth.org - Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
- journals.sagepub.com - Age-related schwannomatosis with potential exosome
- niddk.nih.gov - Prostate Enlargement (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia)
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), or an enlarged prostate, is a common condition in older men. Learn more about the symptoms and treatment options in our new video from Dr. Paul Chung.
BPH is commonly referred to as an enlarged prostate.
00:04
- The prostate is a walnut-sized gland that produces seminal fluid.
- This fluid mixes with sperm during ejaculation.
Enlarged prostate is common in older men.
00:26
- About half of men at age 50 have an enlarged prostate.
- Enlarged prostate prevalence increases with age.
BPH is a non-cancerous condition of the prostate.
00:43
- BPH is different from prostate cancer.
- Some individuals may experience both BPH and prostate cancer.
BPH symptoms can be bothersome
01:05
- Symptoms may include a slow urinary stream
- Some individuals may experience frequent urgent needs to urinate and incomplete bladder emptying
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia can lead to concerning urinary issues.
01:27
- Inability to urinate
- Development of urinary tract infections or blood in the urine
Treatment options for benign prostatic hyperplasia
01:46
- Medications, procedures, and lifestyle changes are available for treatment
- A workup process may involve a genital exam and completing a questionnaire to understand urinary issues
PSA testing for prostate cancer screening
02:08
- Ultrasound can help understand bladder emptying
- Ultrasound provides insight into prostate size
Cystoscopy may benefit patients with urinary issues.
02:24
- Cystoscopy involves passing a camera through the penis to understand prostate and bladder anatomy.
- Seek care with your provider if suffering from urinary issues, as they can be improved.
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