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Benign Prostate Enlargement (BPE)

Benign Prostate Enlargement (BPE), also known as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia or benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH), is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. It is a common condition affecting older men, often leading to urinary symptoms such as difficulty in passing urine, a frequent need to urinate, or a weak urine stream. While BPE is not life-threatening, it can significantly affect the quality of life and may require medical intervention.

Symptoms and Causes
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Table of Contents

Symptoms

  • Frequent Urination: Frequent urination involves an increased urge to urinate, especially during the night (nocturia).
  • Difficulty Starting Urination: Difficulty starting urination refers to trouble initiating urine flow despite a strong urge.
  • Weak Urine Stream: Weak urine stream involves a reduced force of urine flow and dribbling.
  • Incomplete Bladder Emptying and Dribbling: Incomplete bladder emptying is the feeling that the bladder is not completely emptied after urination, and dribbling a few drops of urine.
  • Urgency: Urgency is characterised by a sudden urge to urinate, which can be hard to control.
  • Straining During Urination: Straining during urination refers to the need to push or strain to begin or maintain urination.

Causes

The exact cause of BPE is not known, but several factors contribute to the enlargement of the prostate:

  • Ageing: Ageing contributes to BPE as the prostate grows throughout life, and it often occurs in men over the age of 50.
  • Hormonal Changes: Hormonal changes, especially involving dihydrotestosterone (DHT), play a key role in prostate growth and contribute to BPE.
  • Genetics: Genetics can increase the risk of BPE, especially if there is a family history of the condition.

Risk Factors

  • Age: Age is a significant risk factor, with men over 50 more likely to experience BPE.
  • Family History: A family history of prostate problems can significantly increase the risk of developing BPE.
  • Diabetes and Heart Disease: Diabetes and heart disease, along with certain medications, may contribute to the development of BPE.
  • Lifestyle: Lifestyle factors such as obesity and lack of physical activity can increase the risk of BPH, whereas regular exercise might reduce it.

Complications

Untreated BPH can lead to several complications:

  • Urinary Retention: Urinary retention refers to the inability to pass urine, which may require catheterisation.
  • Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can occur due to incomplete bladder emptying.
  • Bladder Stones: Bladder stones are caused by the accumulation of minerals in the bladder due to incomplete emptying.
  • Bladder Damage: Bladder damage can result from chronic urinary retention, which stretches and weakens the bladder.
  • Kidney Damage: Kidney damage can occur due to increased bladder pressure affecting the kidneys.

When to See a Doctor

If you experience any of the following symptoms, consult your healthcare provider:

  • Inability to urinate.
  • Blood in the urine.
  • Painful urination.
  • Significant discomfort affecting daily activities.
Symptoms and Causes
Diagnosis & Treatment
Book an Appointment
Care at healthXY

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