Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) usually starts when a man is in his thirties. The condition is not evident at first as the condition worsens slowly, over a period of several years. This is the reason the most common symptoms are not evident until after patients reach their fifties onwards. BPH is characterized with the size increase of the patient’s prostate gland. As the gland grows in size, the urethra is compressed which then constricts the urinary flow from the bladder. This patient then feels the need to urinate frequently.

Another common symptom is slowly flowing urine and difficulty to start urinating. More serious cases would involve urinary tract infections or a complete blockage of the urethra. The latter is classified as a medical emergency as it could well result into an injury to the patient’s kidneys. Recommending rectal exams is one way doctors can detect an enlarged prostate in men. Additionally, doctors would need to examine the bladder, prostate and urethra using a cytoscope which is inserted through the man’s penis. Although quite uncomfortable, BPH is not malignant which means that the condition is not a form of any cancer. It is not a symptom or a precursor to prostate cancer.

The problem can be treated although the treatments are reserved for patients that display more serious symptoms. In such cases, surgical and medical treatments are recommended to treat BPH.

Can BPH be Treated?

Because Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is benign, any medical or surgical treatments are recommended and done on patients that exhibit serious symptoms. This does not mean that men cannot monitor the condition if they are beginning to experience even the minor symptoms. In these cases, an annual prostate exam is recommended to keep the condition in check.

For those with serious Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) symptoms however, medical treatments are recommended after a thorough physical exam with a doctor. Surgery is used to treat BPH particularly among patients that do not respond well to medication. This is also an option given to patients that could not urinate completely. A common surgical procedure is called the Transurethal Resection of the Prostate, or TURP. The procedure involves inserting a specialized instrument through the penis and into the urethra. Using the same instrument, the surgeon removes a part of the inner prostate, allowing the urine to flow freely from the bladder. The patient is put under general anesthesia for this procedure.

Laser surgeries are also available and can be performed using local anesthesia. This also involves removing prostate tissue that impedes the flow of urine. Although laser surgeries are more practical and have quicker recovery periods than TURP, the procedure is not as effective as the latter over time. Lastly, microwave therapy can also be performed and use microwave energy directly to the prostate gland. This eliminates damaged cells that lead to the prostate to shrink and allow urine to flow freely. While undergoing surgery is proven effective, it is important to learn and understand the benefits and the risks of undergoing these options. It is also important to discuss any medical history patients have with doctors in order to properly diagnose and recommend the best treatments.

Can Drugs be Used to Treat BPH?

There are two types of drugs that can be used to treat Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). There is the 5-alpha reductase inhibitors and the alpha blockers. Flomax (Tamsulosin) is a popular type of alpha blocker and works by relaxing prostate tissue. This then allows the urine to flow freely from the bladder. This is helpful for patients that find it very difficult to start urinating or have a very weak urine flow. Alpha Blockers like Flomax however, do not take effect immediately.

It would take at least a couple of days for the drug to work. Patients notice a relief in their urinary problems within two to three weeks of taking the drug. It is important to understand however, that apart from providing a relief from urinary discomfort, taking these types of medications will not stop the prostate gland from enlarging. While there is no denying the benefits of taking alpha blockers like Flomax, it is important to keep a few things in mind prior to taking the medication.

First of all, there are side effects to taking drug. The side effects are different on the type of medication you will take and will go away after you have stopped taking the drug. Side effects are usually mild though and often cause tiredness, dizziness or minor body pains. There is also a lessening in the amount of semen during ejaculation and though it can be a little upsetting for a man, it is not harmful at all. Another important thing to know about drugs such as Flomax is it does not cause vision problems, contrary to what people think. This is why discussing medical history with a doctor before undergoing treatments or trying medications is strictly recommended.