With age, changes in the body become more observable, and one of the most common and neglected disorders is benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or simply put, an enlarged prostate. BPH, or benign prostatic hyperplasia, is a common non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that afflicts millions of men around the world but is most prevalent in men over the age of 50. Although BPH itself is not typically dangerous, it can lead to various negative health effects making it incredibly important that it is found and treated in a timely fashion.
Early recognition of symptoms can lead to earlier treatment, which may help avoid complications, such as urinary tract infections or kidney problems.
What is Enlarged Prostate?
The prostate is a small walnut-sized gland that sits just below the bladder in a man. It is primarily responsible for producing fluid which nourishes and carries sperm cells. There is a normal, gradual increase in the size of the prostate that occurs as men age. This growth can result in BPH for some. The prostate can push and block the urethra from urine flow.
When men are diagnosed with early stages of BPH, medications like veltam 0.4 are recommended to help men relax the muscles of the prostate and bladder neck, making it easier to urinate. But treatment is most effective when it is given promptly, so learning to recognise the early signs and symptoms is key.
Early Symptoms of an Enlarged Prostate
Symptoms of an enlarged prostate can appear gradually and can be mild or severe. Below are a few potential warning signs to look out for:
1. Frequent Urination
An increased frequency of urination, particularly at night — a condition called nocturia — is one of the earliest symptoms. Getting up once at night to urinate is normal, but multiple times can signal BPH.
2. Urgency to Urinate
Men may experience a strong urge to urinate and may feel unable to hold on, resulting in wet pants.
3. Weak Urine Stream
The enlarged portion of prostate squeezes the urethra, limiting the urine passage. Men may notice a weak or interrupted stream that takes longer than usual to empty the bladder.
4. Straining to start urination
Another early sign is trouble initiating the flow of urine, despite feeling the urge to go. This can be frustrating and can worsen over time.
5. Incomplete Emptying Of Bladder
You might have the sensation of not having emptied your bladder even after urinating. That can mean going to the bathroom every 35 minutes — and a higher likelihood of urinary tract infections.
6. Straining While Urinating
A few men have felt as though they had to give it or make a push to begin their pee. This is usually a result of the enlarged gland causing your urethra to narrow.
When to See a Doctor
Even if the symptoms are mild enough to not require immediate treatment, any change in the passing of urine should be addressed with a professional. If symptoms impact your daily life, sleep, or cause anxiety, it is worthwhile to be evaluated.
Neglecting the signs can complicate the process such as:
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Bladder stones
- Bladder damage
- Kidney damage
- Acute urinary retention — a painful, sudden inability to urinate, which may require urgent care
Diagnosis and Evaluation
Diagnosing benign prostatic hyperplasia usually consists of a detailed medical history, a complete physical examination and specific tests such as:
- Digital rectal examination (DRE) to evaluate the size and shape of the prostate
- Confirmation of urine tract infection–Urinalysis
- Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test — to test for prostate issues
- Ultrasound or urinary flow tests Checking how effectively the bladder is emptying.
These tests assist your doctor in assessing the status of the condition and the ideal treatment protocol.
Treatment Options for BPH
Treatment depends on how severe your symptoms are and how much they affect your daily life. In many instances, lifestyle changes and medication are the only things a person needs.
1. Medications
Alpha-blockers and 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors are the most common among them. Alpha-blockers such as veltam 0.4 work by relaxing around the prostate and bladder neck to make urination easier. These medicines can provide rapid symptomatic relief.
2. Lifestyle Changes
Small lifestyle changes can make a big difference when it comes to BPH symptoms:
- Cutting down on caffeine and alcohol
- Limiting drinks near bedtime
- Double-voiding (urinating, then sitting and waiting a few minutes and trying again)
- Staying physically active
- Performing pelvic floor workouts
3. Minimally invasive procedures
In cases where medication does not provide enough relief, procedures like Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) or laser therapy could be suggested.
4. Surgery
Surgery is usually a last option and is used only when symptoms are significant or complications have occurred.
Prevention and maintenance long-term
Although there is no way to prevent an enlarged prostate, a maintained healthy lifestyle can decrease the risk and help slow down the progress. Here are some prevention methods you can try:
- Eat well, including an abundance of fruits, veggies, and healthy fats
- Maintain an appropriate blood sugar level
- Do not drink too much alcohol
- Manage stress
- After 40, have check-ups regularly
Wrapping Up
A hyperplastic prostate is part of the ageing process, but men need to take heed of the symptoms. However, with timely intervention and appropriate management, quality of life can be enhanced and long-term complications may be prevented. It is always best to listen to the body and seek medical help as soon as possible.
Temsunol Tablet is one of the medications among the several options available for BPH, and it is prescribed to help relieve urinary symptoms and improve bladder function. Before using or substituting any medicine, please consult your doctor.