Dont Let BPH Control You: Men Taking Charge of Their Prostate Health
By Dr. David Samadi
It’s time men take control of their prostate health in regards to BPH or benign prostatic hyperplasia. This very common condition most men will experience, especially after age 50, has an important role of unfortunately undermining the health of a man’s prostate.
Let’s take a look at understanding this condition, what causes it, risk factors involved, recognizing the symptoms of BPH, and when to seek help. This is the best way to be in charge of protecting the health of your prostate.
What is BPH?
Unfortunately, with age, the risk of prostate-related issues, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), increases. BPH, or an enlarged prostate, can cause various complications, underscoring the importance of recognizing symptoms and seeking early treatment.
BPH is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that typically develops due to hormonal changes as men age. Research suggests that as testosterone levels decrease, levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT)—a more potent form of testosterone—increase, affecting prostate size. This enlarged prostate can place pressure on the urethra, the tube through which urine exits the body, leading to urinary and sexual difficulties.
BPH is a common condition, affecting approximately half of men over the age of 60, and more than 90% of men over 85 show some signs. While BPH does not indicate prostate cancer, the two conditions can co-exist, and symptoms can overlap. Therefore, regular prostate screenings are essential to distinguish between the two and to promote timely intervention.
Causes and Risk Factors
In addition to aging, several other factors contribute to the likelihood of developing BPH, including:
- Chronic Diseases: Conditions such as diabetes and heart disease are associated with an increased risk of prostate enlargement.
- Genetic Predisposition: A family history of BPH can increase your chances of experiencing the condition.
- Obesity: Excess weight can strain the bladder and heighten the risk of BPH.
- Ethnicity: Studies show that Black men are at a higher risk of developing BPH at an earlier age, which may be connected to earlier puberty onset compared to other ethnic groups.
Recognizing Symptoms of BPH
If you experience any of the following symptoms, consult a healthcare professional for an evaluation:
- Hematuria (Blood in Urine) – Blood may appear visibly (gross hematuria) or microscopically in the urine. BPH can cause this as the enlarged prostate compresses the urethra, leading to irritation.
- Urinary Flow Issues – Obstruction of the urethra can lead to various urinary difficulties, such as weak or intermittent flow, delayed initiation of urination, and, in some cases, urinary incontinence.
- Nocturia – This refers to waking up multiple times at night with the urge to urinate. Nocturia can stem from BPH, among other causes.
- Painful Urination (Dysuria) – BPH can irritate the urinary tract, resulting in discomfort or pain during urination.
- Incomplete Bladder Emptying – Men with BPH may find it challenging to fully empty the bladder, leading to frequent bathroom visits and potential dribbling of urine.
When to Seek Help
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical advice to prevent further complications. Early intervention can improve the quality of life and prevent more severe issues associated with untreated BPH. For an evaluation or to learn more about BPH treatment options, contact Dr. David Samadi at 212-365-5000.
Dr. David Samadi is the Director of Men’s Health and Urologic Oncology at St. Francis Hospital in Long Island. He’s a renowned and highly successful board certified Urologic Oncologist Expert and Robotic Surgeon in New York City, regarded as one of the leading prostate surgeons in the U.S., with a vast expertise in prostate cancer treatment and Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy. Dr. Samadi is a medical contributor to NewsMax TV and is also the author of two books, Prostate Cancer Now What? A Practical Guide to Diagnosis, Treatment, and Recovery and The Ultimate MANual, Dr. Samadi’s Guide to Men’s Health and Wellness, available online both on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Visit Dr. Samadi’s websites at robotic oncolo gy and prostate cancer 911.