Understanding Enlarged Prostate: Symptoms, Causes & Treatments

If you're looking for expert care for prostate health, consult the best urologist in Paschim Vihar for personalized treatment and advice.

The prostate is a small, walnut-shaped gland in men, critical to the reproductive system. As men age, this gland can grow larger, resulting in a condition called Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), or enlarged prostate. While common, BPH can significantly impact comfort and daily life. Let’s delve into its symptoms, causes, and available treatments.

 

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Symptoms of an Enlarged Prostate

An enlarged prostate can press on the urethra, leading to urinary difficulties. Common symptoms include:

• Frequent urination: Experiencing the urge to urinate often, especially during the night (nocturia).
• Difficulty starting urination: Struggling with a weak or interrupted urine flow.
• Incomplete bladder emptying: Feeling as though your bladder isn't fully emptied.
• Urgent need to urinate: Experiencing sudden, strong urges to urinate.
• Dribbling at the end of urination: Inability to completely stop the flow of urine.

If you notice these symptoms, consulting a urologist in Paschim Vihar can help ensure proper diagnosis and care.

 

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Causes of an Enlarged Prostate

The precise cause of prostate enlargement is not entirely understood, but certain factors are known to contribute:

• Age: BPH is most prevalent in men over 50.
• Hormonal changes: Shifts in testosterone and estrogen levels can trigger prostate growth.
• Family history: Genetic predisposition may increase the likelihood of developing BPH.
• Lifestyle factors: Obesity, inactivity, and poor dietary habits can exacerbate symptoms.

 

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Treatment Options for an Enlarged Prostate

Managing BPH involves a range of treatment options, tailored to the severity of symptoms:

1. Lifestyle Changes

• Reduce intake of caffeine and alcohol to avoid bladder irritation.
• Maintain a healthy weight and stay physically active.
• Avoid drinking fluids near bedtime to limit nighttime urination.

2. Medications

• Alpha-blockers: Relax the muscles around the prostate and bladder, improving urine flow.
• 5-alpha reductase inhibitors: Gradually shrink the prostate gland.

3. Minimally Invasive Procedures

• Procedures like transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) or laser therapy offer relief for severe symptoms.

4. Surgery

• For advanced cases, surgical removal of parts of the prostate may be necessary.

 

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When to See a Urologist

If BPH symptoms disrupt your daily life or lead to complications like urinary tract infections, kidney issues, or bladder stones, it’s vital to seek help from a urologist in Paschim Vihar. Early diagnosis and intervention can prevent further complications and improve overall well-being.