What is it?

It is a common condition that occurs while men get older. The condition causes the prostate and the surrounding tissues to expand. Hence, the condition is commonly known as prostate gland enlargement. Normally, as you age, the prostate will get larger. First, it happens during early puberty. Then it keeps on growing from the age of 25. When it grows so large that it causes problems, it is Benign Prostatic hyperplasia.

 

Is it dangerous?

BPH (Benign Prostatic hyperplasia) is benign. It is not a form of cancer and may not lead to one. For most cases, BPH doesn't require treatment. But if it begins to cause symptoms, treatment may help relieve you from it. BHP is common and about half of the men between ages 50 and 60 have BHP. Almost three-fourths of the men above age 80 have it.

 

Can we take preventive measurements?

There is no certainty in terms of preventing BHP. Either way, maintaining your health, eating a balanced diet, keeping your ideal weight and body mass can help in various other ways. It can keep in check the hormone levels and other factors in the blood.

If you have blood in your urine, pain while urinating, or if you are unable to urinate, immediately seek the help of a doctor. We have the best Urologist in Dubai to take care of your health.

It is always best to make sure that your body is working normally and safely.

 

Symptoms and Diagnosis!

Since the Urethra envelops the prostate gland, it is easy to assume that the enlargement of the prostate can lead to blockage of the tube.

The symptoms could be:

• Difficulty urinating.
• The frequency of urination is increased.
• The urgency to urinate is increased.
• Pain after ejaculation or while urination.
• Urine that may look a different color or may smell funny.

If you have any of the following symptoms below, see the doctor immediately:

• Inability to urinate.
• Pain in the genitals while urinating.
• Fever or chills while urinating.
• Blood in the urine.

 

The diagnosis is first procured by looking into your medical history and by giving you a complete physical check-up.

Various tests like urine tests, blood tests, a digital rectal exam can give an initial diagnosis.

To confirm an enlarged prostate or to rule out other conditions, your doctor will take various specialized tests. For example, the urinary flow test where you urinate into a funnel (which is attached to a machine) will measure the strength and amount of urine flow.

If the condition is more severe, the doctor will recommend more advanced tests like a prostate biopsy or a cystoscopy, where a flexible tool is inserted into the urethra to give the doctor a good view inside your urethra and bladder.

 

 

 

 

What are the treatments available?

The three types of treatment available are active observation, medication, surgery.

 

• Active observation

Often, BHP requires active surveillance and constant care. This means that BHP is monitored at regular intervals. A yearly exam is the most common interval. During this period, a good diet and exercise are recommended by the doctor.  This method is best for men with mild to moderate symptoms.

There is no active treatment during this method, only active observation.

 

• Medication

Prescribing drug is a viable option to tackle BHP. Alpha-blockers can help relax the muscles of the prostate and bladder. Men with moderate to severe symptoms can take medication, to reduce the severity of the symptoms.

There are a few side effects that may occur.

 

• Surgery

Outpatient treatment can be done using MIST ( minimally invasive surgical treatments). The recovery time is quicker. It can also offer relief from the symptoms.

There are various MIST treatments. Water vapor thermal therapy, Transurethral microwave therapy, and catheterization are some of them. During catheterization, a catheter is inserted into the bladder to drain urine. More than a surgical method, this is a treatment for men who wait for medication to work or surgery shortly.

 

There is a wide range of surgical methods, some of which are: Photoselective vaporization, holmium laser enucleation of the prostate, transurethral resection of the prostate, transurethral incision of the prostate, etc.

If you find yourself having any urinary-related difficulty or pain, seek help immediately. Our Urologist can help you tackle your symptoms and make your life easier. Get an expert medical opinion and get the most premium care for your condition.