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BPH
Overview
Benign prostatic hyperplasia, also known as BPH, is a common condition that occurs in nearly 50% of men by age 60. BPH can best be described as a benign enlargement of the prostate gland. In some men, this enlargement occurs and has no symptoms, but in others it can cause bothersome symptoms related to bladder emptying.
Symptoms
The most common symptoms that occur in men with BPH are related to bladder emptying, and include slow urinary stream, difficulty starting the urinary stream, incomplete bladder emptying, frequent daytime or nighttime urination, and unpredictable strong urges to empty that may be associated with incontinence (involuntary loss of urine). Some men with advanced BPH may also have recurrent bladder infections or experience a complete inability to void.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of BPH is usually made by a physician after a thorough history and physical exam. The patient may also be asked to fill out a questionnaire that helps the doctor assess symptoms and monitor response to treatment. The doctor may order additional urine and blood tests, as well as an ultrasound test of the bladder. They may also have the patient urinate into a special toilet that measures the flow of urine. The symptoms of BPH can be caused by other conditions, such as bladder and prostate cancer, so one of the doctor's primary goal is to rule out these more serious conditions. These tests also help the physician determine the severity of BPH, which is important in recommending treatment.
Treatment
Watchful waiting, oral medication, transurethral resection of the prostate, minimally invasive treatments for BPH, open surgery with removal of the prostate (uncommon).
Self Care
Men with BPH may benefit from behavior changes, such as cutting back on evening fluid intake, dietary changes, regular daytime voiding, and attention to complete bladder emptying.
Additional Reading
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