Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

---

What is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia?

BPH occurs when there's a multiplication of prostate gland cells, causing the prostate to become enlarged and causes urinary discomfort. The prostate gland forms a ring around the urethra, and when the prostate gland becomes enlarged, it can cause the urethra to become restricted. A restricted urethra can lead to urinary difficulty.

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Symptoms

The symptoms of BPH vary from patient to patient. If not treated, the symptoms get progressively worse over time. There are two types of symptoms associated with BPH, obstructive - symptoms of the urethra, and irritative - symptoms that affect the bladder.

Obstructive Symptoms

• Incontinence - lack of control over urination
• Straining when urinating
• Difficulty starting to urinate
• Weak urinary stream

Irritative Symptoms

• Pain when urinating
• Urinary urgency - feeling the sudden urge to urinate
• Urinary frequency - frequent urination
• Nocturia - frequent urination during the night

Symptoms that may indicate a more complex health issue

• Pain or burning sensation when urinating
• Blood in urine
• Urinary Tract Infection
• Prostatitis

Treatment for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

Treatment of BPH depends on a variety of factors. These factors include; age, size of the prostate, the severity of your symptoms, as well as your overall health. In some cases, symptoms stabilise or improve over time which is why Dr de Jager may recommend monitoring your symptoms rather than immediately starting treatment. If symptoms appear to be worsening or not improving, there are different treatments available. These treatments include, but are not limited to:

• Urinary Retention Medication - used to relax the bladder or decrease the size of the prostate
• Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) - surgical removal of prostate tissue to relieve symptoms
• Minimally Invasive Surgery