BPH Frequently Asked Questions
What is the prostate?
Together with other structures, the prostate gland makes up the male sex organs.
A healthy prostate is about the size of a walnut and sits just below the bladder,
surrounding the urethra, the tube that carries urine and semen out of the penis.
The prostate secretes a milky fluid that provides nutrients to the sperm and is
discharged into the urethra at the time of emission of semen. Read more about prostate.
What is BPH?
After the age of 40, the prostate may begin to enlarge. As its size increases, the
prostate squeezes the urethra, potentially stopping or slowing the flow of urine
and semen. Most of the symptoms associated with BPH are related to obstruction of
the urethra and loss of bladder function. Read more
about BPH.
Is BPH a sign of cancer?
No. While it is possible to have both BPH and prostate cancer, having BPH does not
increase your risk of having prostate cancer. However, because early symptoms of
both conditions are similar, it is important to see your doctor if you are experiencing
any symptoms associated with a urinary condition. Read more about the signs and symptoms of BPH.
Is BPH a serious disease?
If your symptoms are not bothering you, BPH may not be a serious disease for you
at this time. However, BPH can lead to serious problems, including infections and
the inability to urinate. In rare cases, BPH can lead to kidney damage. Take the BPH quiz.
What tests will my doctor order?
Multiple tests are available to help your doctor diagnose your condition. Discuss
each test with your doctor, including any concerns you may have and what he or she
expects to learn from the results.
Digital rectal exam. This is usually the first test
your doctor will order. During the DRE, the doctor inserts a gloved and lubricated
finger into the rectum to feel the size of the prostate.
Urinalysis. The urine test is used to rule out the
presence of infection or conditions that may produce similar symptoms as BPH.
Blood test. Your doctor may order a blood test to
measure your prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level and rule out prostate cancer
as a cause of your symptoms.
Imaging tests. Ultrasound may be performed to estimate
the size of your prostate and may also detect a prostate stone, kidney stone, or
obstruction, or a tumor.
Urinary flow test. Urinary flow study. You may be
asked to urinate into a special device that monitors the strength and amount of
your urinary flow. A reduced urine flow may indicate BPH.
Cystoscopy. A cystoscope is a thin tube with a magnifying
lens that is inserted into the bladder through the urethra.
What treatments are available for BPH?
Several treatments are available. You should discuss all of your treatment options
with your doctor.
Watchful waiting. If your symptoms are not bothering
you, your doctor may suggest monitoring your disease and postponing treatment.
Medicines. Multiple medications are available to relieve
your symptoms with or without reduction in the size of the prostate.
Nonsurgical procedures. Several minimally invasive
thermal therapies are available that allow your doctor to access your prostate through
your urethra and reduce the size of the prostate or decrease obstruction of the
urethra.
Surgical treatment. Surgery may be used to remove
part or all of the prostate.