Benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlargement)
About Benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlargement)
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is caused by the enlargement of the prostate gland. The prostate surrounds the urethra and is located in the pelvis. The urethra is a tube that carries urine from the bladder to the penis. As the prostate enlarges it compresses the urethra making urination difficult. This disorder is felt to be a normal part of becoming older, although some men experience worse symptoms than others.Symptoms
Slowed or delayed start of the urinary stream, weak urine stream, dribbling after urinating, straining to urinate, strong and sudden urge to urinate, incomplete emptying of your bladder, needing to urinate two or more times per night, urinary retention (complete inability to urinate).Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed, with special attention paid to the rectal exam. Additional tests may include: urine analysis, blood test for prostate-specific antigen (PSA), urine flow rate, post-void residual urine test to see how much urine is left in the bladder after urination.Common tests: CT Scan, Urinalysis (UA).
Prescription medications
Conventional treatment summary
Drugs to decrease the size of the prostate (finasteride and dutasteride). Alpha 1-blockers (doxazosin, prazosin, tamsulosin, terazosin, and alfuzosin) to increase the flow of the urine. Surgical resection of the prostate is sometimes necessary. The most common surgeries are a transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), laser surgery and microwave therapy.Medical specialties
Internal Medicine · Urology · Family Practice
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlargement).