As men age, changes in urinary habits are often overlooked or dismissed as a normal part of ageing. One of the most common reasons behind these changes is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), or an enlarged prostate. Although BPH is not cancerous, it can significantly impact a man’s comfort, confidence, and overall quality of life. Early awareness of its symptoms, causes, and treatment options is key to maintaining urinary health.
In this comprehensive guide, Dr Saket Narnoli, a trusted urologist in Dhanbad, shares expert insights on BPH, helping men recognise the signs and explore effective treatment solutions.
What is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)?
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) refers to the non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, a small walnut-shaped organ located just below the bladder. The prostate surrounds the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body.
As the prostate enlarges with age, it can press against the urethra and partially block urine flow. This causes various urinary problems such as difficulty urinating, frequent nighttime urination, or a weak urine stream.
BPH is very common among older men, affecting nearly half of men over 50 and up to 90% of men over 80. While it’s a natural part of ageing, untreated BPH can lead to complications like urinary tract infections (UTIs), bladder stones, and kidney damage.
What Are the Symptoms of BPH in Men?
The symptoms of BPH can vary from mild to severe and often develop gradually. Here are the most common signs men should look out for:
- Frequent urination, especially at night, nocturia
- Difficulty starting urination or straining to pass urine
- Weak or interrupted urine stream
- Dribbling at the end of urination
- Urgency to urinate with little warning
- Inability to empty the bladder
- Pain or burning sensation during urination (if infection develops)
These symptoms are collectively known as Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS). They can interfere with sleep, daily activities, and even emotional well-being.
According to Dr Saket Narnoli, ignoring these early warning signs can worsen prostate obstruction and increase the risk of BPH-related urinary tract infections. Therefore, timely consultation with a urologist is essential.
What Causes BPH in Men?
While the exact cause of BPH isn’t fully understood, several factors contribute to prostate enlargement:
- Ageing:
As men age, hormonal changes, particularly a decrease in testosterone and an increase in estrogen, can cause prostate cells to multiply, leading to enlargement. - Hormonal Imbalance:
The hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT), derived from testosterone, plays a role in prostate growth. High levels of DHT can cause the prostate to continue growing even in older age. - Family History:
Men with a family history of prostate problems are more likely to develop BPH. - Lifestyle Factors:
Obesity, lack of physical activity, and poor diet can increase the risk of developing BPH symptoms earlier. - Other Health Conditions:
Conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension are linked with a higher incidence of BPH due to metabolic and hormonal influences.
Is There a Connection Between BPH and Urinary Tract Infection?
Yes, there is a close relationship between BPH and urinary tract infections (UTIs) in men. When the prostate enlarges, it compresses the urethra, preventing the bladder from emptying.
The leftover urine in the bladder becomes a breeding ground for bacteria, increasing the risk of infections. Common signs of UTI in men with BPH include:
- Burning sensation during urination
- Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
- Blood in the urine
- Fever and chills in severe cases
Repeated UTIs may indicate that the bladder is not draining properly due to BPH obstruction. In such cases, immediate medical attention is required to prevent further complications such as bladder stones or kidney infection.
How is BPH Diagnosed?
A proper diagnosis is key to managing BPH effectively. During consultation, Dr Saket Narnoli performs a detailed evaluation, which may include:
- Medical history and symptom discussion
- Digital rectal examination (DRE): To check the size and texture of the prostate
- Urine flow test: To measure the strength and speed of the urine stream
- Bladder ultrasound: To check residual urine after urination
- Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test: To rule out prostate cancer
These tests help determine the severity of BPH and guide the best treatment approach for each patient.
What Are the Treatment Options for BPH?
BPH treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and how much they affect daily life. Treatment options include:
1) Lifestyle Modifications
For mild cases, simple lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms:
- Reduce caffeine and alcohol intake
- Avoid drinking fluids before bedtime
- Empty the bladder completely when urinating
- Exercise regularly to improve bladder function
- Maintain a healthy weight
2) Medications
Several medications are available to help shrink the prostate or relax muscles around it:
- Alpha-blockers: Relax the muscles of the bladder and prostate to improve urine flow.
- 5-alpha reductase inhibitors: Reduce prostate size over time by blocking hormone changes.
- Combination therapy: In some cases, doctors prescribe both medications for better results.
3) Minimally Invasive Treatments
When medications fail, minimally invasive techniques can relieve obstruction with fewer side effects. These include:
- Transurethral Microwave Therapy (TUMT)
- Transurethral Needle Ablation (TUNA)
Both use heat or radio waves to shrink excess prostate tissue.
4) Surgery
For severe symptoms or complications, surgical options like Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) or Laser Prostate Surgery are highly effective in restoring normal urine flow.
Can BPH Be Prevented?
While aging is inevitable, adopting a healthy lifestyle can help slow the progression of BPH:
- Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Stay physically active to support hormonal balance.
- Avoid prolonged sitting and keep stress levels in check.
- Get regular prostate check-ups after age 40, especially if symptoms appear.
When Should You See a Urologist?
If you’re experiencing frequent urination, weak urine flow, or discomfort in your pelvic area, it’s best to consult a urologist immediately. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to urinary retention or kidney issues.
Early diagnosis allows for simpler, more effective treatments and prevents long-term complications.
Conclusion
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia is a common but manageable condition that affects millions of men worldwide. With early recognition and proper medical guidance, most men can lead a healthy, active life without major urinary problems.
If you’re noticing urinary difficulties or symptoms of BPH and are looking for expert care, consulting Dr Saket Narnoli can help you get the right diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your needs. His expertise in BPH and urinary tract conditions ensures that every patient receives comprehensive, compassionate care for better prostate health.
