Prostrate Enlargement

What is prostrate enlargement?

The prostate gland surrounds the urethra, the tube through which urine passes out of the body. An enlarged prostate means the gland has grown bigger.

Causes:

Factors linked to aging and changes in the cells of the testicles may have a role in the growth of the gland, as well as testosterone levels.

Men who have had their testicles removed at a young age (for example, as a result of testicular cancer) do not develop BPH.

Also, if the testicles are removed after a man develops BPH, the prostate begins to shrink in size. Some facts about prostate enlargement:

• The chances of developing enlarged prostate increases with age.
• A small amount of prostate enlargement is present in many men over age 40. More than 90% of men over age 80 have the condition.

Symptoms:

• Dribbling at the end of urinating
• Inability to urinate
• Incomplete emptying of your bladder
• Incontinence
• Needing to urinate frequently
• Pain with urination or bloody urine (these may indicate infection)
• Slowed or delayed start of the urinary stream
• Straining to urinate
• Strong and sudden urge to urinate
• Weak urine stream

Treatment options include lifestyle changes, medicines, or surgery.

Preventions:

• Urinate when you first get the urge. Also, go to the bathroom on a timed schedule, even if you don't feel a need to urinate.
• Avoid alcohol and caffeine, especially after dinner.
• DO NOT drink a lot of fluid all at once. Spread out fluids during the day. Avoid drinking fluids within 2 hours of bedtime.
• Try NOT to take over-the-counter cold and sinus medicines. These drugs can increase BPH symptoms.
• Keep warm and exercise regularly. Cold weather and lack of physical activity may worsen symptoms.
• Learn and perform pelvic strengthening exercises.
• Reduce stress. Nervousness and tension can lead to more frequent urination.