Enlarged Prostate

What is an enlarged prostate?

An enlarged prostate, or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), causes your prostate gland to expand and swell. Over time, this can result in a variety of uncomfortable symptoms as well as bladder and urinary tract problems.

The majority of men will experience an enlarged prostate at some time during their lives, but with early diagnosis and intervention, it’s possible to manage and treat.

What are the symptoms of an enlarged prostate?

Common symptoms of an enlarged prostate include:

• Frequent need to urinate
• Dribbling at the end of urination
• Weak urine stream
• An increased need to urinate at night
• Difficulty starting urination

As the condition progresses, you might also experience a urinary tract infection (UTI) or blood in your urine.

Who is at risk of an enlarged prostate?

The majority of men experience continued prostate growth throughout their lives. Over time, this growth enlarges the prostate resulting in urinary symptoms. Researchers aren’t entirely sure what causes the prostate to expand, but it’s thought that hormonal imbalances may play a role.

Other factors that may increase your risk of an enlarged prostate include obesity, living a primarily sedentary lifestyle, and having a chronic condition like high blood pressure or diabetes. You’re also more likely to experience an enlarged prostate if the condition runs in your family.

How is an enlarged prostate diagnosed?

To diagnose an enlarged prostate, Dr. Youngren reviews your medical history and asks about your lifestyle and symptoms. He then conducts a comprehensive physical, including a digital rectal exam (DRE). 

Dr. Youngren also orders several laboratory tests, including a urine test, blood test, and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test. Your prostate produces PSA. High levels indicate enlargement or more serious issues like prostate cancer.

If these measures don’t provide enough information, Dr. Youngren might also order a urinary flow test or a transrectal ultrasound.

How is an enlarged prostate treated?

Treatment for an enlarged prostate depends on several factors, including your age, the size of your prostate, and your overall health. If you have mild symptoms, Dr. Youngren might recommend a “wait and watch” approach. 

If your symptoms negatively affect your quality of life, Dr. Youngren might recommend prescription medications like alpha-blockers or 5-alpha reductase inhibitors. 

If medication doesn’t relieve your discomfort, you might benefit from minimally invasive surgery. There are several types of minimally invasive treatment for an enlarged prostate, including:

• Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP)
• Transurethral incision of the prostate (TUIP)
• Transurethral microwave therapy (TUMT)
• Transurethral needle ablation (TUNA)
• Laser therapy

To receive all-inclusive treatment for an enlarged prostate, schedule an appointment at Advanced Urology. Book a consultation online or call the office to speak with a caring staff member today.