Be aware of these Early Signs of Prostate Enlargement

Prostate gland enlargement is also termed benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It is common in older men. An enlarged prostate gland results in symptoms like urine incontinence or frequent urination. If not treated, it can result in bladder stones or kidney-related diseases. Some medications and surgical procedures can provide relief from enlarged prostate glands.

What is the prostate gland?

The prostate gland is located beneath the urinary bladder and in front of the rectum. It secretes a fluid called semen that helps in the swift movement of sperms. The urethra carries both semen and urine and passes through the prostate. If the size of the prostate gland increases, it affects the transfer of semen and urine through the urethra.

Causes

The primary cause of prostate enlargement is unknown, but it has been estimated that the change in the male sex hormones in men in old age can enlarge the prostate gland.

Symptoms of prostate enlargement

The severity of the enlarged prostate exhibits different signs and symptoms that gradually worsen with time. Some common symptoms of prostate enlargement are:

• Urine incontinence - It is a situation where the person loses control over urination. This leads to leakage of urine due to a sudden urge for urination.
• Nocturia - Frequent urination at night
• Stress incontinence is when the urine leaks under strain, sneezing, or any strenuous activity.
• Dribbling of urine
• Difficulty in starting urination
• A weak stream of urination that stops suddenly
• The frequent urge for urination
• Inability to empty the bladder after urination
• Pain after ejaculation
• Discoloration or odour in urine

Lesser common symptoms of prostate enlargement are:

• Hematuria - It refers to the presence of blood cells in the urine.
• Urinary tract infection
• Burning sensation or pain during urination

Diagnosis of prostate enlargement

There are various ways to diagnose the enlarged prostate gland, including:

• Physical examination of the rectum
• Blood test - Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test
• Transrectal ultrasound
• Post-void residual volume test
• Prostate biopsy

When to see a doctor

If you observe symptoms like difficulty in urination or blood in urine, you must contact a urologist near you. The diagnostic tests will confirm the problem associated with the symptoms.

Risk factors

There are many risk factors associated with enlargement of the prostate, including:

• Diabetes - Diabetes or consumption of beta-blockers can increase the risk of enlarged prostate glands.
• Family history - The genetic composition of an individual also increases the chances of prostate enlargement.
• Ageing - Nearly 30% of men around the age of 60 have enlarged prostate symptoms.
• Obesity - It increases the risks of prostate enlargement.

Possible complications

If left untreated, an enlarged prostate gland can lead to possible complications, including

• Bladder stones
• Urinary tract infection
• Damage to kidneys

Treatment of Prostate Enlargement

There are various ways to treat the enlarged prostate gland in men, like

• Lifestyle - Quit smoking and alcohol and strengthen pelvic floor muscles by exercising.
• Medications - Some medicines can relax prostate gland muscles or reduce their size to normal.
• Surgery - TURP (transurethral resection of the prostate) cuts a piece of the prostate gland with a loop. In contrast, TUIP (transurethral incision of the prostate) makes minor cuts in the prostate gland to reduce its pressure on the urethra.

Conclusion

Early observation, diagnosis, and treatment of the symptoms of an enlarged prostate gland can decrease the risk of future problems in males. After the age of 60, they must regularly visit a urologist to get their urinary tract examined. This will also reduce the risks of bladder stones or kidney diseases.

If you have any queries about the symptoms and complications regarding the same, contact a doctor to get professional medical advice.

Request an appointment at Apollo Spectra Hospitals Call 1860 500 2244