Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

What are Benign Prostate Conditions?

Deep inside the male pelvis, in front of the rectum and beneath the bladder, is the prostate gland. The urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder, is encircled by it. The prostate produces fluid that feeds sperm and is typically the size of a walnut. BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia) and prostatitis are frequent benign (noncancerous) disorders that can affect the prostate gland.

What is BPH?

Men who are older may experience BPH, a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. It may appear asymptomatic or with urinary symptoms. In order to avoid urine retention, poor bladder and kidney function, and other complications, it is crucial to get treatment for this illness as soon as possible.

Symptoms

BPH can cause a variety of symptoms, such as difficulties starting to urinate, a weak urine stream, increased frequency of urination, increased nighttime urination, urine leakage, incomplete bladder emptying, and urine retention. A doctor may typically make the diagnosis after gathering medical history and conducting a thorough examination of the prostate gland. Typically, a urine sample is examined to ensure that there is no blood or illness. A post-void residual test is performed to determine how much pee is being retained in the bladder, and a uroflowmetry test is occasionally performed to examine the flow rate.

Treatment

Changing one's food and way of life is the first line of treatment for BPH. Medical therapy can be started if they do not help symptoms. The prostate gland can be reduced in size or the prostate and bladder can be relaxed with the aid of medication. If medical treatment is unsuccessful, the patient may benefit from surgical treatments. The transurethral resection of the prostate, or TURP, is the most popular operation. A small camera is inserted into the urethra during this surgery, and extra prostate tissue is removed using a surgical tool.

A laser can also be used to resect prostate tissue. There are also other minimally invasive therapies that can be used in BPH to help improve urinary symptoms and quality of life. Sometimes when the prostate gland is extremely large, surgical removal of the gland is performed through an incision.

What is Prostatitis?

Inflammation or infection of the prostate gland is referred to as prostatitis. If there is an acute bacterial infection, it may show up as discomfort, urinary symptoms, and occasionally fevers, chills, and blood in the urine. The testicles, penis, lower back, and region between the scrotum and rectum are frequently the sites of pain. Urgeness, frequency, a weak stream, and pain or burning while urinating are all examples of urinary symptoms. Additionally, there may be some pain or difficulties getting erections.

How is Prostatitis Diagnosed?

A doctor can identify prostatitis based on symptoms and a physical examination. Sometimes the prostate will swell up and feel tender. Additionally, a urine sample may be taken to check for infection or inflammation. A prostate massage may occasionally be given, followed by examination of the fluid released from the penis.

What are the Treatment Options for Prostatitis?

Prostatitis can be challenging to manage when no infection is diagnosed. Pelvic muscle relaxation treatments, as well as dietary and lifestyle changes, may be beneficial. Additionally good are regular Sitz baths and prostate massage. Anti-inflammatory drugs reduce pain and swelling, while other drugs may occasionally be used to relax the muscles of the prostate. Supplements with antioxidants may be beneficial for treating chronic prostatitis. Your doctor might recommend an antibiotic course lasting 4-6 weeks if an infection is suspected. Surgical drainage may be required if a prostate abscess is suspected.

Whether you have prostatitis or BPH will be determined by our medical professionals at Interventional Radiology Center. A history and physical examination will be performed at each visit to look for signs and risk factors for benign prostate diseases. To help with the diagnosis, they could suggest additional tests. Then, a treatment plan made especially for you will be crafted by our specialists. They can recommend surgical procedures to enhance your quality of life if medicinal treatment is ineffective for treating your problems.