BUMRUNGRAD HEALTH BRIEFS #30: Understanding Benign Prostate Hyperplasia: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
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Understanding Benign Prostate Hyperplasia: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
The prostate, a small gland found in men below the bladder and surrounding the urethra, plays a crucial role in the male reproductive system. Its primary function is to produce seminal fluid, which nourishes and transports sperm. As men age, it is common for the prostate to enlarge, a condition known as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH).
Causes of Prostate Enlargement
The exact cause of BPH is not fully understood, but it is believed to be linked to changes in the balance of sex hormones as men age. Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone derived from testosterone, accumulates in the prostate and may promote cell growth. Additionally, a family history of BPH, obesity, diabetes, and heart disease are risk factors.
Symptoms of BPH
As the prostate enlarges, it can press against the urethra, causing a variety of urinary symptoms. These include frequent urination, especially at night (nocturia), difficulty starting urination, weak urine stream, the feeling of incomplete bladder emptying, and, in severe cases, urinary retention. These symptoms can significantly impact the quality of life, making timely diagnosis and treatment crucial.
Importance of Multiple Treatment Options
BPH is a common condition, but fortunately, there are multiple treatment options available, allowing for personalized care. At Bumrungrad International Hospital, our Urology Department offers advanced treatments, including Rezum Water Vapor Therapy and UroLift.
Rezum uses the natural energy stored in water vapor to shrink the prostate tissue, providing relief from symptoms without the need for invasive surgery. UroLift, on the other hand, involves the placement of small implants that lift and hold the enlarged prostate tissue, opening the urethra and allowing urine to flow more freely. Both treatments are minimally invasive, offering quicker recovery times and fewer side effects than traditional surgery.
Choosing the right treatment depends on various factors, including the size of the prostate, the severity of symptoms, and the patient's overall health. Our experienced urology specialists at Bumrungrad are dedicated to providing comprehensive care and guiding patients through the best treatment options tailored to their needs.
By offering state-of-the-art treatments like Rezum and UroLift, Bumrungrad International Hospital ensures that patients with BPH can receive effective, minimally invasive care that helps them regain their quality of life.
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