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Benign prostatic hyperplasia, understanding its effects and treatments
- September 25, 2024
Benign prostatic hyperplasia is a condition that affects many men, particularly those over the age of 50. It manifests itself in a variety of ways, primarily through urinary symptoms that can significantly affect the patient's quality of life. This article delves into the causes, symptoms, and treatment options available for this condition.
Symptomatology
Men who suffer from this condition often experience a frequent need to urinate, both during the day and at night . These symptoms may include difficulty initiating urination, a weak or intermittent urine stream, burning when urinating, and even the sensation of not being able to completely empty the bladder. These discomforts are not only physical, but can also have a serious impact on daily activities and social life.
Prostate enlargement , which is the main cause of benign hyperplasia, occurs naturally with age. Although prostate growth is common, it should not be confused with cancer. This growth is attributed to hormonal factors and the action of testosterone on the prostate gland.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing benign prostatic hyperplasia is a relatively straightforward process that involves a number of evaluations. Initially, a history is taken to gather information about the symptoms present. A physical examination may then be performed, including a digital rectal exam to assess the size of the prostate and rule out any abnormalities. Additional tests such as blood tests to assess prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and ultrasound are also helpful in the diagnosis.
Prevention and Early Review
Prevention plays a critical role in the management of BPH . It is recommended that all men over the age of 50 undergo annual check-ups . It is important to address any symptoms that may indicate its presence, as early diagnosis can facilitate treatment and improve quality of life. Maintaining an active lifestyle and a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables can also help reduce the risk.
Once diagnosed, treatment may vary depending on the severity of symptoms. In many cases, doctors opt for medications such as alpha-blockers, which help relax the prostate muscles and make urination easier. However, some therapies may have side effects that limit their use, such as erectile dysfunction or retrograde ejaculation.
When symptoms are more severe and medications are not effective, surgical interventions are considered. Various techniques are available, ranging from transurethral resection of the prostate to less invasive approaches using lasers. These surgeries have evolved considerably and offer patients options with fewer complications and shorter recovery times.
Surgery
Prostate lift surgery is one of the most innovative techniques in treatment, allowing for improvements in urinary flow with fewer risks. Through this technique, implants are placed in the prostatic urethra that remove the prostatic lobes that obstruct the flow channel. This intervention is positioned as a viable alternative that allows patients to return to their normal lives without entering a hospital.
Benign prostatic hyperplasia is a common condition that, although not serious, can strongly impact the quality of life of those who suffer from it. Prevention, early diagnosis and the multiple treatment options available offer men the possibility of managing their symptoms effectively and leading a full and active life. It is always advisable to seek the opinion of a urological specialist to decide the best approach based on individual needs.
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