If you’re having prostate symptoms and are interested in educating yourself on the risk factors, and test screenings for your condition such as an enlarged prostate (BPH) and prostatitis, we’ll help you establish some points to look out for.
The first step is to visit your physician to determine what symptoms you may be experiencing due to Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), also known as an enlarged prostate. Traditionally, this condition has been treated with medication or an invasive surgical procedure, Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP). Luckily today with the rapid increase in technology, patients have the opportunity to treat their enlarged prostate condition with less invasive treatments such as the GreenLight™ Laser Therapy.
What is the Prostate?
Your prostate is the male gland in the genital-urinary tract. The main purpose of your prostate is to create fluid that delivers the sperm during ejaculation.
Located below the bladder and surrounding the urethra lies your prostate. The function of the urethra is to carry urine from the bladder through the penis. Additionally, the urethra is also known as the urinary channel.
What is BPH (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia)?
BPH is essentially an enlarged prostate that is non-cancerous. With that being said, your prostate tends to grow normally during your youth. Eventually its maximum size is that of a walnut. As men age, their prostate may begin to grow again. Medically it is unknown why the prostate continues to grow with age. An estimated 80% of men will experience BPH, and many older men experience BPH symptoms.
How Severe are My Symptoms?
According to The American Urological Association an extensive questionnaire was developed to help your doctor pinpoint BPH symptoms you may be experiencing. Known as the AUA Symptom Index, this questionnaire can help determine the severity of your symptoms.
What are the Symptoms of an Enlarged Prostate?
Since an enlarged prostate causes pressure on the urethra it can create an obstruction of the flow of urine through the urethra.
When an obstruction is caused to the flow of urine, it can cause the following problems:
• Frequent urination, especially at night (nocturia)
• Weak urine flow
• Sudden urge to urinate (urgency)
• Trouble starting and stopping your urine stream (hesitation)
• Inability to completely empty your bladder
• Pushing or straining to urinate
• Pain or burning during urination
What Treatment Options Are Available for Enlarged Prostate?
Typically, a number of treatments are available for those experiencing prostate symptoms. Some examples include: medications, minimally-invasive office procedures, and surgery. Additionally, GreenLight™ Laser Therapy is now considered a non-invasive option for patients. The best treatment ultimately depends on the symptoms you’re experiencing and the severity of your condition. Your physician will also factor in the size of the prostate, your age, and health condition. Overall, the best possible treatment for an enlarged prostate will be decided by your after undergoing a thorough examination of your condition.
