Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, or BPH, is also know as enlarged prostate. According to the National Kidney and Urological Disease Information Clearinghouse, the most common prostate problem for men over 50 years old is prostate enlargement. By age 60, over half of the male population has BPH, and by the age 85, the number climbs to 90%.
An enlarged prostate is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate that blocks the flow of urine through the urethra. As the urethra narrows, the bladder has to contract more forcefully to push urine through the body. Over time, the bladder muscle may gradually become overly sensitive and contracts even when it contains small amounts of urine, causing a need to urinate frequently. Eventually, the bladder muscle cannot overcome the effect of the narrowed urethra so urine remains in the bladder and is not completely emptied. When the bladder does not empty completely, the individual is at risk for developing urinary tract infections. Other serious problems can develop over time.
Symptoms of an enlarged prostate in clude slowness or dribbling of the urinary stream, difficulty starting to urinate or hesitancy, frequent urination, feeling of urgency or sudden need to urinate, or the need to get up at night from bed to urinate. As symptoms progress, a man may develop bladder stones, bladder infections, blood in the urine, damage to the kidneys, or sudden blockage of the urinary tube, making urination impossible.
There are various treatments available for BPH. South Florida Medical Research is currently conducting a clinical research study of a new investigational medication for men who suffer from enlarged prostate. If you would like to find out more about this available treatment at 305-931-8080 or ask your doctor for more information.
