Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a non-cancerous growth of the prostate gland that develops in most men from middle age onwards. It can progressively narrow the urethra and obstruct the outflow of urine from the bladder, producing the characteristic lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) of BPH.
The prostate sits just below the bladder and wraps around the urethra. As it grows, the inner "transition zone" of the gland increases in volume and can compress the urethral channel. The bladder muscle initially compensates by working harder; over time it can become thickened and irritable (overactive), then ultimately weaker, so emptying is incomplete.
Histological evidence of BPH is present in roughly half of men by age 60 and in most men by age 80. Not every man with BPH develops symptoms or needs treatment.
Detailed descriptions and a validated questionnaire sit on the symptoms and IPSS page.
Untreated BPH can cause:
These complications tend to develop slowly. Assessment usually involves a flow study, a post-void bladder scan, a PSA blood test, and in some cases transrectal ultrasound or MRI to measure the prostate. See how BPH is assessed.
The choice is tailored to gland size, bladder function, symptom severity, general health, blood thinner use and personal priorities. See when surgery is the right answer.
You can ask for a second opinion on your symptoms, flow studies and prostate size before deciding between medication, HoLEP, GreenLight, TURP, UroLift, Rezum or iTind.