Benign prostate hyperplasia, or BPH, is the swelling or growth of the prostate gland. The prostate gland is a male organ that secretes a fluid that is crucial to the production of healthy sperm. The gland is situated between the bladder and urethra. Men experience two marked periods of prostate growth. The first is in adolescence and the second occurs after the age of 50. According to USA Today's Health Encyclopedia, 90 percent of men will experience the symptoms of BPH by their 70s or 80s. Benign prostate hyperplasia indicates that the growth is not associated with a cancerous condition. While the symptoms are common, it is important to work with a physician to monitor prostate growth in order to prevent and/or diagnose prostate cancer.
Urinary Symptoms
Due to the location of the prostate gland between the bladder and the urethra, common symptoms of BPH are those that affect a man's urinary process. Enlarging of the prostate causes pressure on the urethra that can gradually slow the flow of urine. Common symptoms are frequent urination, especially at night, and difficulty urinating. Decreased urinary flow or strength, interrupted flow, dribbling, problems initiating, pain or burning, and blood in the urine may be experienced. Many ignore these symptoms as a natural part of aging. However, it is important to consult with a physician to be sure a more serious problem such as prostate cancer is not causing these common urinary symptoms.
Kidney and Bladder Function
Frequent infections of the bladder, kidneys and urinary tract can indicate a BPH problem. This can be much more severe than simple urinary discomfort. It is caused by the slowing of urinary disposal, where the bladder stores high amounts of urine, causing fullness. Over time this may lead to bladder distension and weakness. Urine back flow can cause the feeling that the bladder is not empty, signaled by the impulse to urinate accompanied by an inability to do so. Frequent infections and over-storing of urine can cause total renal failure if not treated immediately. Consult with your physician if any of these symptoms persist.
Hormonal Imbalance
Changing hormonal patterns in aging men can indicate a risk of BPH. As males age they produce larger amounts of certain hormones that help to enlarge the prostate. Symptoms associated with low testosterone, such as low energy, decreased sexual function, weight gain, muscle loss and gynecomastia can indicate a potential problem. Gynecomastia is the growth of glandular breast tissue in men, due to overproduction of female hormones. Aging males have lower active blood testosterone, which means more of this important hormone is converting to estrogen and DHT, or dihydrotestosterone. Estrogen encourages the growth of certain tissues including the prostate, and may lead to the development of prostate cancers. DHT can also increase the size of the prostate gland. Hair loss and excessive body hair growth can indicate high levels of DHT. A simple blood test can determine if hormones are contributing to BPH.
