As men age, changes in prostate health become increasingly common—and one of the most frequent concerns is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). While it’s a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, BPH can lead to bothersome urinary symptoms that may impact daily life and sleep quality. The good news? BPH is highly manageable with the right treatment approach.
Let’s explore what BPH feels like, why it happens, and how it can be treated effectively.
What is BPH and Why Does It Happen?
BPH occurs when the prostate gland—located just below the bladder—grows in size, gradually pressing against the urethra and affecting the flow of urine. It’s a common condition in men over the age of 50, but it can begin earlier in some individuals.
Possible causes include:
- Hormonal changes related to aging
- Genetic factors or family history
- Lifestyle habits, such as lack of exercise or poor diet
- Underlying health conditions like diabetes or obesity
While BPH is not prostate cancer, ignoring its symptoms can lead to complications like urinary retention or bladder stones.
Common Symptoms of BPH
Early signs can be subtle, but over time, BPH may cause:
- A frequent urge to urinate, especially at night (nocturia)
- Difficulty starting urination
- Weak or interrupted stream
- Feeling of incomplete bladder emptying
- Straining to pass urine
- Occasional urinary leakage or dribbling
If you’re noticing any of these symptoms, it’s important to get a urological evaluation to rule out other conditions and begin proper management.
Treatment Options for BPH
The goal of treatment is to relieve symptoms, improve quality of life, and prevent long-term complications. Depending on severity, options may include:
1. Lifestyle Modifications
- Reducing caffeine and alcohol intake
- Limiting fluids before bedtime
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Regular exercise
2. Medications
- Alpha-blockers: Relax prostate muscles to ease urine flow
- 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors: Help shrink the prostate over time
- Combination therapy: For more significant symptom control
3. Minimally Invasive Procedures
- TURP (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate)
- Laser therapy
- UroLift system – A newer, less invasive option
4. Surgery
For severe cases, surgery may be recommended to remove excess prostate tissue and restore normal urinary function.
Don’t Ignore the Symptoms — Help is Available
Living with BPH can be frustrating, but modern treatments can help you feel like yourself again. Early diagnosis ensures better outcomes and more options.
👉 Book your consultation with Dr. Anil Kumar T – a highly experienced urologist committed to providing personalized, effective treatment for BPH and other prostate-related conditions.
