Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

Key Takeaway

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), or enlarged prostate, is a condition where the prostate grows abnormally, usually in aging men due to hormonal changes.
Symptoms often include frequent urination, urgency, weak or interrupted urine flow, incomplete emptying, and mild discomfort in the lower abdomen.
Treatment may involve lifestyle modifications, medications to shrink or relax the prostate, or surgical/minimally invasive procedures in severe cases.
Ignoring symptoms may lead to complications such as urinary tract infections, bladder stones, or kidney problems.
Early check-ups with a urologist are essential. Vibhavadi Hospital offers specialized consultation, advanced diagnostics, and modern treatment options.

What is BPH and Is It Dangerous?

Definition: Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is the abnormal enlargement of the prostate gland, often increasing to 40–100 grams or more.
Who is at risk: Common in men over 50.
Location: The prostate sits below the bladder and surrounds the urethra. When it enlarges, it presses on the urethra, causing urinary symptoms.
Danger: BPH is not cancer and not directly life-threatening. However, untreated cases may severely impact quality of life and lead to complications such as urinary retention, infection, or kidney damage.

Causes of BPH

Hormonal changes: Lower testosterone with age and higher DHT (dihydrotestosterone) stimulating prostate cell growth.
Aging: Most cases occur in men 50+.
Genetics: Family history increases risk.
Health and lifestyle factors: Obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and lack of exercise increase risk.
Other factors: Chronic prostate inflammation and diets high in fat but low in fruits/vegetables.

Symptoms of BPH

Frequent urination, especially at night
Urgency or inability to hold urine
Slow or weak urine stream
Interrupted flow or dribbling
Incomplete bladder emptying
Straining to urinate
Discomfort or burning sensation while urinating (in some cases)
Complications such as bladder infection, stones, or kidney problems in severe cases

Diagnosis of BPH

Doctors may use several tests to assess prostate health and severity of symptoms:

History and physical exam – Includes Digital Rectal Exam (DRE) to check prostate size and texture.
Urinalysis – To rule out infection, stones, or kidney issues.
Blood test (PSA) – Measures prostate-specific antigen to distinguish BPH from prostate cancer or inflammation.
Post-Void Residual (PVR) – Ultrasound or catheter to measure urine left after voiding.
Uroflowmetry – Measures urine flow rate and strength.
Cystoscopy – A scope is inserted to view the urethra, bladder, and prostate directly, often before surgery or if other conditions are suspected.

Treatment for BPH

Lifestyle Modifications & Monitoring

Reduce evening fluid intake
Avoid caffeine and alcohol
Practice timed voiding and fully empty the bladder
Exercise regularly
Regular follow-ups with a doctor

Medications

Alpha-blockers: Relax muscles around the urethra to improve urine flow
5-alpha reductase inhibitors: Reduce prostate size over time by blocking hormonal changes
Sometimes used in combination, under medical supervision

Surgery or Procedures

TURP (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate): Standard surgery to remove excess tissue
Laser therapy or heat-based treatments: Modern, less invasive alternatives
Choice depends on prostate size, overall health, and doctor’s assessment

Prevention and Self-Care

Maintain a healthy weight
Exercise regularly (walking, swimming, cycling)
Limit caffeine and alcohol, especially at night
Stay hydrated, but avoid excessive fluids before bedtime
Eat a balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acids
Annual health check-ups, especially for men over 50 or with family history
Manage stress and get sufficient sleep

BPH vs. Prostate Cancer

BPH: Non-cancerous enlargement caused by cell growth → causes urinary obstruction but not life-threatening
Prostate Cancer: Malignant cell growth → can spread to other organs if untreated
Symptoms: May overlap, but cancer is more serious and requires urgent treatment
Key Point: BPH affects quality of life, while prostate cancer can be life-threatening

Treatment at Vibhavadi Hospital

At Vibhavadi Hospital, the Urology Center provides comprehensive care for BPH, including:

Diagnostics: Ultrasound, PSA blood tests, and cystoscopy for accurate evaluation
Treatment options:
- Medications to relax or shrink the prostate
- Surgical solutions to relieve obstruction when necessary
Personalized care: Treatment plans are tailored to each patient for the best outcomes and minimal risks

Conclusion

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is one of the most common urological conditions in older men. Though not life-threatening, it significantly affects daily life and can lead to complications if untreated. Early recognition of symptoms, accurate diagnosis, and timely treatment are essential.

By maintaining healthy lifestyle habits, seeking regular medical checkups, and consulting specialists when symptoms appear, men can effectively manage BPH and protect their long-term urinary and kidney health.

If you notice frequent urination, weak urine flow, or incomplete emptying of the bladder, consider a consultation at Vibhavadi Hospital’s Urology Center for precise diagnosis and modern treatment options.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Let’s take a moment to better understand benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), so you can recognize the symptoms, screening methods, and self-care approaches more clearly.

What are the possible complications if BPH is left untreated?

If benign prostatic hyperplasia is left untreated, complications may arise, such as urinary retention, urinary tract infections, bladder stones, or even kidney dysfunction. The best prevention is to monitor your symptoms and consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment recommendations.

How large can the prostate become?

Normally, the prostate gland measures about 3 × 4 × 2 centimeters, weighing approximately 20–30 grams—roughly the size of a walnut. In cases of BPH, the prostate may enlarge to 40–100 grams or more. There is no fixed size, as enlargement varies depending on severity and age.

Can BPH go away on its own?

BPH does not resolve on its own because it is a permanent enlargement of the prostate related to aging or hormonal factors. While symptoms may be mild at first, untreated BPH can lead to difficulty urinating, incomplete emptying, or complications such as bladder stones. Treatment is necessary, which may include lifestyle changes, medications, or surgery in more severe cases as advised by your doctor.

How is the prostate examined, and is it painful?

Prostate evaluation usually begins with medical history and physical examination. In some cases, a digital rectal exam (DRE) or a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test may be required. These procedures may cause slight discomfort but are generally not painful, and they play an important role in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.