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Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a non-cancerous condition in which the prostate gland becomes enlarged. This can cause a variety of symptoms, including difficulty urinating, a weak urine stream, and frequent urination (particularly at night). You might also hear it referred to as benign prostate enlargement or prostate gland enlargement.
The prostate is a small gland located just below the bladder, surrounding the urethra. It is responsible for producing semen and also plays a role in urine flow. As men age, the prostate gland can grow larger, causing the urethra to become narrower. BPH is a common condition that affects many older men. It is estimated that about 50% of men in their 60s and as many as 90% of men in their 70s and 80s have some degree of benign prostatic hyperplasia. The exact cause of benign prostatic hyperplasia is not known, but it is thought to be related to changes in hormone levels in the body. The condition is not cancerous and does not increase the risk of prostate cancer. However, it can be a source of significant discomfort and inconvenience for those affected.
For more information on benign prostatic hyperplasia or other conditions that affect your prostate, our experienced urologists are here to help you. Call 0141 300 5009 or book online today and you could have your initial consultation within 48 hours.
At Circle Health Group, we understand the impact that benign prostatic hyperplasia can have on your quality of life. That's why we offer private benign prostatic hyperplasia treatment options that are tailored to each individual patient's needs. Our team of specialist consultants has the expertise and experience to provide the most effective treatment options for benign prostatic hyperplasia, whether it be through medication, minimally invasive procedures, or surgery.
Our team of specialists are experts in the latest private benign prostatic hyperplasia treatment options, including minimally invasive procedures such as UroLift and Rezum, as well as medication therapy.
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), also known as benign prostate hyperplasia, is a common condition that affects men as they age. The prostate gland, which is located just below the bladder, can begin to grow in size, causing a range of symptoms. Understanding the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia is important in order to seek out effective treatment options.
Urinary symptoms
One of the most common symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia is difficulty urinating. This can include a weak urine flow, a feeling of incomplete emptying, and the need to urinate frequently, especially at night. These symptoms can be caused by the enlarged prostate pressing against the urethra and making it harder for urine to flow through.
Painful urination
In some cases, men with benign prostatic hyperplasia may experience painful urination. This can be caused by inflammation in the prostate or bladder, or by a urinary tract infection that develops as a result of the condition.
Blood in urine
Another symptom that men with benign prostatic hyperplasia may experience is blood in the urine. This can be caused by an infection in the prostate or bladder, or by the presence of small (benign) tumours within the prostate gland.
Erectile dysfunction
In some cases, men with benign prostatic hyperplasia may experience erectile dysfunction. This can be caused by the enlarged prostate pressing against the nerves and blood vessels that are responsible for maintaining an erection.
It is important to note that while these symptoms may be caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia, they can also be caused by other conditions. Therefore, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider to get an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, schedule a consultation with Circle Health Group to confirm whether you have benign prostatic hyperplasia treatment and determine the best course of action for you.
The exact cause of benign prostatic hyperplasia is not known, but several factors are believed to play a role in its development.
Age
One of the most significant risk factors for the development of benign prostatic hyperplasia is age. As men get older, the chances of developing benign prostatic hyperplasia increase. The majority of men with benign prostatic hyperplasia are over the age of 50, and the risk continues to increase as men get older.
Hormones
The prostate gland is sensitive to the levels of certain hormones in the body, specifically testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (also known as DHT). As men age, the levels of these hormones in the body decrease, which can lead to an increase in the size of the prostate gland.
Genetics
There is also evidence to suggest that benign prostatic hyperplasia may have a genetic component. Studies have found that men with a family history of benign prostatic hyperplasia are more likely to develop the condition themselves.
Other factors
Other factors that may increase the risk of developing benign prostatic hyperplasia include obesity, a high-fat diet, and a lack of physical activity. Additionally, smoking and heavy alcohol consumption may also increase the risk of benign prostatic hyperplasia.
It is important to note that having one or more of these risk factors does not guarantee that a man will develop benign prostatic hyperplasia. Additionally, many men with benign prostatic hyperplasia do not have any known risk factors. However, understanding the potential causes of benign prostatic hyperplasia can help in the diagnosis and treatment of the condition. If you are experiencing symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia, it is important to schedule a consultation with a specialist at Circle Health Group for a proper diagnosis and to discuss treatment options.
Treatment options for benign prostatic hyperplasia vary from person to person depending on the severity of the condition and the individual case. There are several non-surgical options for treating benign prostatic hyperplasia, including medications, lifestyle changes, and physiotherapy.
Medications
Medications such as alpha-blockers, 5-alpha reductase inhibitors, and antimuscarinics can help to relax the muscles in the prostate and bladder, making it easier to urinate. These medications can also help to reduce the size of the prostate gland.
Lifestyle changes
Making certain lifestyle changes can also help to manage the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia. Drinking less fluids before bedtime, reducing caffeine and alcohol intake, and avoiding medications that can worsen symptoms, such as decongestants, can be beneficial.
Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy such as pelvic floor exercises can help to strengthen the muscles in the pelvic area and improve urinary flow.
In cases where more conservative treatment options have not been effective, surgery for BPH may be recommended.
Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP)
TURP is a surgical procedure where an instrument is inserted through the urethra to remove excess prostate tissue. This procedure is usually performed under general anaesthetic and requires a hospital stay of a few days.
Laser surgery
Laser surgery, such as Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP), uses a laser to remove excess prostate tissue. This procedure is also performed under general anaesthesia and typically requires a hospital stay of a few days.
Prostate Artery Embolisation (PAE)
PAE is a minimally invasive procedure that involves blocking the blood flow to the prostate gland. This can help to reduce the size of the prostate and improve symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia.
Laser prostatectomy
Laser prostatectomy is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a laser to remove the prostate tissue that is blocking the urethra. This can help to improve urinary flow and ease symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia.
The best treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia will depend on the individual case and the severity of the condition. At Circle Health Group, our specialists will work with you to determine the best course of treatment for your specific needs and goals.
If you're experiencing symptoms such as difficulty urinating, a weak urine stream or frequent trips to the bathroom, you may be suffering from benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), also known as an enlarged prostate. At Circle Health Group, our specialist consultants are here to help you understand your condition and provide the best treatment options for you.
During your initial consultation, our team will work with you to understand your symptoms and evaluate the best course of treatment for your condition. At this first appointment, your consultant will perform a physical exam and may also recommend a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test to evaluate the size of your prostate and rule out any other potential causes of your symptoms.
Depending on the results of your initial examination and PSA test, our team may recommend additional tests or scans, such as a urine flow test or ultrasound, to get a better understanding of your condition.
Your first consultation is crucial in determining the best course of treatment for your benign prostatic hyperplasia.
Based on the results of your examination and any additional tests or scans, our team will work with you to determine the best course of treatment for your condition. This may include medications, lifestyle changes or, in more severe cases, surgery.
Does benign prostatic hyperplasia go away?
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that typically occurs in older men. In some cases, benign prostatic hyperplasia may improve or even resolve on its own, but in most cases, it is a chronic condition that requires treatment.
Can benign prostatic hyperplasia become cancer?
BPH is not cancer and does not increase the risk of prostate cancer. However, if a man has symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia and a high PSA level, it is important to rule out the possibility of prostate cancer before beginning treatment.
Can benign prostatic hyperplasia cause blood in urine?
Blood in the urine is not a common symptom of benign prostatic hyperplasia, but it can occur in rare cases. If a man experiences blood in the urine, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional to rule out other potential causes.
How common is benign prostatic hyperplasia?
BPH is a common condition that affects approximately 50% of men over the age of 50. It becomes increasingly common with age.
How is benign prostatic hyperplasia diagnosed?
BPH is typically diagnosed through a physical exam, a digital rectal exam, and a blood test called PSA (prostate-specific antigen) test. In some cases, a urologist may also perform an ultrasound or other imaging tests to get a better look at the prostate gland.
Is benign prostatic hyperplasia serious?
BPH is not a cancerous condition and is not life-threatening. However, it can cause uncomfortable symptoms and can lead to complications such as urinary tract infections, bladder stones, and kidney damage if left untreated. This is why it's important to seek treatment if you are experiencing symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia.
When you choose to go private with Circle Health Group, you can expect:
- Flexible appointment times and locations to suit your routine
- The freedom to choose which hospital and consultant fit your needs
- Personalised, consultant-led treatment plans tailored to your specific requirements
- Comfortable and safe private facilities maintained by expert multidisciplinary teams
- Private ensuite rooms as standard and delicious healthy meals
- Affordable, fixed-price packages with aftercare included
- Flexible payment options to help you spread the cost of your care
If you would like to learn more about treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia, book your appointment online today or call a member of our team directly on 0141 300 5009.
Content reviewed by Circle in-house team in January 2023. Next review due January 2026.
- Benign prostate enlargement, NHS
- Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), Urology Care Foundation
- Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, Cleveland Clinic
- Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), John Hopkins Medicine
- What Do You Want to Know About Enlarged Prostate?, Healthline
- Prostate Enlargement (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia), NIH
