Prostate enlargement, medically known as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), is an increase in the rate of cell division in the prostate gland, leading to its enlargement. It's important to note that BPH is not cancerous. The chances of developing this condition increase with age, and the enlargement causes problems with urination due to pressure on the urethra.

Symptoms of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

Difficulty emptying the bladder during urination is one of the primary symptoms accompanying prostate enlargement. Other symptoms include:

• Urinary retention.

• Frequent urge to urinate.

• Weak urine flow, indicating the bladder's inability to contract to empty its contents properly.

• Increased urination during sleeping hours.

• Urinary incontinence.

• Dribbling of urine after urination.

• Pain during ejaculation or urination.

• Changes in urine color and odor.

Causes of Prostate Enlargement

Studies suggest that aging is accompanied by a decrease in testosterone levels while estrogen levels remain the same. These hormonal changes may lead to prostate enlargement. Additionally, older individuals have higher levels of dihydrotestosterone, a form of testosterone hormone, which, when elevated, contributes to enlargement.

Risk Factors for Prostate Enlargement

The chances of developing prostate enlargement increase in certain cases, including:

• Individuals over 40 years old.

• Family history of prostate enlargement.

• Obesity.

• Cardiovascular diseases.

• Type 2 diabetes.

• Lack of exercise.

• Sexual dysfunction.

Diagnosis of Prostate Enlargement

Diagnosis depends on the patient's health condition, visible symptoms, medical history, and clinical examination to assess prostate size through the rectum. The doctor may also conduct the following tests:

• Urinalysis to detect urinary tract infections.

• Urine culture to confirm the absence of bacterial infection or inflammation in the urinary tract.

• Bladder and prostate ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging.

• Uroflowmetry to assess the bladder's ability to empty its contents.

• Cystoscopy.

• Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test, a blood test indicating prostate problems. Elevated levels suggest benign prostate enlargement or prostate cancer, but this test alone cannot differentiate between them.

• Blood analysis to exclude kidney problems.

Treatment of Prostate Enlargement

There are multiple treatment options for prostate enlargement, including:

Lifestyle modifications

Lifestyle modifications aimed at relieving symptoms, such as avoiding fluids before public outings or bedtime, reducing caffeine intake, performing pelvic muscle strengthening exercises (Kegel exercises), treating constipation if it occurs, and regular doctor visits to monitor the condition.

Pharmacological treatment

Doctors often resort to medications for long-term management, including:

• Alpha blockers: These medications relax the prostate and bladder, improving urine flow and reducing the frequency of urination. Examples include Prazosin, Terazosin, and Tamsulosin.

• 5-alpha reductase inhibitors: These medications increase urine flow and prevent the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone responsible for prostate enlargement. Examples include Finasteride and Dutasteride.

Phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors: Although primarily used for erectile dysfunction, these drugs have been scientifically proven to relax smooth muscles, including those in the prostate and bladder. An example is Cialis.

The doctor may prescribe a combination of treatments for better control of BPH symptoms.

Surgical Treatment

Surgical treatment aims to remove prostate tissue that obstructs urine flow. Various techniques, including endoscopic and laser procedures, are employed.

Prevention of Prostate Enlargement

To reduce the risk of developing prostate enlargement, individuals should follow these recommendations:

• Exercise for 30 minutes daily.

• Follow the doctor's recommendations regarding the management of chronic diseases such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and diabetes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between prostate enlargement and prostate cancer?

Benign prostate enlargement does not spread to other areas of the body, unlike prostate cancer. Since some symptoms overlap between benign enlargement and cancer, individuals experiencing any of the aforementioned symptoms should consult a doctor.

Is prostate enlargement contagious?

No, the condition cannot be transmitted from one person to another.

Does prostate enlargement increase the risk of prostate cancer?

Scientific research and studies have shown that benign prostate enlargement does not increase the likelihood of developing cancer despite the similar symptoms between the two conditions.