Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a medical condition that refers to the non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland in males. The prostate gland is located below the bladder and surrounds the urethra (the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body).
As men age, hormonal changes cause the prostate gland to grow larger, leading to BPH. The enlargement of the prostate may gradually compress the urethra, leading to various urinary symptoms. Common symptoms of BPH include frequent urination, difficulty starting or stopping urine flow, weak urine stream, increased urgency to urinate, and incomplete bladder emptying. These symptoms can significantly impact a man's quality of life and may require medical intervention.
The exact cause of BPH is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to hormonal imbalances, specifically the increase in levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a byproduct of testosterone. Other factors such as age, family history, and certain lifestyle factors may also contribute to the development of BPH.
While BPH is considered a benign condition, the symptoms it causes can be bothersome and even severe in some cases. Treatment options for BPH range from lifestyle modifications to medication therapy, minimally invasive procedures, or surgery, depending on the severity of symptoms and their impact on the patient's quality of life.
Regular check-ups with a healthcare professional, especially for men above 40 years of age, can help in early detection and timely management of BPH.
