The prostate is a small gland found just below the bladder. It encircles the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of a man's body. With age, the prostate may gradually enlarge and press on the urethra, resulting in urinary problems. This non-cancerous enlargement is known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), commonly called an enlarged prostate.
An enlarged prostate typically affects men above 50 years of age, and the condition becomes more common with advancing age. It is therefore important to be aware of the symptoms so that you can take timely action.
Signs and Symptoms of an Enlarged Prostate
Some men with an enlarged prostate notice troublesome symptoms, while others may have no symptoms at all. A number of other factors, such as lifestyle, anxiety, certain medicines and other health conditions, may also cause similar symptoms. If you have been experiencing any of the following signs for a long time, it is advisable to visit your healthcare professional for further investigation.
- Weak urinary flow, or an inability to urinate
- A feeling that the bladder has not emptied properly
- A need to urinate more often, especially at night
- Dribbling of urine after you have finished urinating
- Incontinence
- Pain during urination
- Blood in the urine
Causes of an Enlarged Prostate
While the exact cause of an enlarged prostate remains unknown, a few factors are known to increase the risk of developing this condition.
- Age: Age is the most common factor associated with an enlarged prostate. The chances of developing the condition increase as you get older, and many men over 50 have an enlarged prostate, with or without symptoms.
- Hormone levels: The balance of hormones in the body may also play a role. Hormones change as you grow older, and this can sometimes cause the prostate to grow.
- Other factors: Studies suggest that men who are obese or have diabetes are more likely to develop an enlarged prostate. A sedentary lifestyle may be another contributing factor.
Treatment Options for an Enlarged Prostate
Treatments for an enlarged prostate come in different forms. While conventional methods remain effective, several of the latest treatment options and breakthrough technologies may resolve the symptoms of this condition faster than other methods.
Prostate Artery Embolisation (PAE)
Prostate artery embolisation, or PAE, is a minimally invasive, non-surgical treatment for an enlarged prostate. It uses X-ray guidance to deliver tiny particles directly to the prostate, restricting the blood flow to the gland and causing it to shrink in size.
Men with persistent urinary problems may be candidates for this procedure. During it, the surgeon inserts a catheter through the wrist and guides it towards the prostate, where small beads are released to restrict the blood flow. You will be given sedation so that you do not feel discomfort while the procedure is carried out.
Optilume BPH Catheter System
This is another minimally invasive treatment option for an enlarged prostate. The system uses a double-lobe balloon technology to reduce pressure on the urethra and improve urinary flow rates. This method was approved by the FDA in 2023 and has a high success rate. According to studies, it provides immediate and sustained improvement in patients with mild to severe symptoms of an enlarged prostate.
Surgical Treatment Options
If the procedures above are not suitable, the surgeon may perform one of the following operations to treat prostate enlargement. Some of these are minimally invasive, while others follow a more traditional approach.
- Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP)
- Transurethral vaporisation of the prostate (TUVP)
- Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP)
- Open prostatectomy
- Bladder neck incision
Lifestyle Changes
If an enlarged prostate is not causing too much discomfort, you may wish to wait before undergoing surgical treatment. Your healthcare professional may suggest some important lifestyle changes to help manage the symptoms.
- Reduce the amount of caffeine in your diet.
- Avoid artificial sweeteners and fizzy drinks, as they may irritate the bladder and worsen your symptoms.
- Review your medicines, as certain antidepressants are linked to worsening symptoms.
- Eat more fibre to avoid constipation, which may put pressure on the enlarged prostate.
- Exercise regularly and lose excess weight, as people who are obese are more vulnerable to this condition.
- Take your medicines as prescribed to keep your prostate health in check, and attend follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider.
Takeaway
An enlarged prostate is a common condition in men, and many of them ignore urinary symptoms, assuming these to be a normal part of ageing. It is vital to identify the condition in its early stages so that you can receive the right treatment to manage it. Thanks to the latest treatment options, an enlarged prostate can now be managed effectively, improving your overall quality of life. For those who wish to explore the newer procedures in more detail, our guide to modern treatments for an enlarged prostate is a helpful next step. Consult a urologist at the right time to ensure better outcomes and long-term relief.
Every treatment plan starts with a proper assessment, so you only get the care your condition actually needs. If you have symptoms or a question about your health, book a consultation with Dr. Anish Gupta.