Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

The prostate is a gland the size of a chestnut. It is only present in men, and it is situated under the bladder surrounding the urethra, the passageway that takes the urine to the outside. The gland produces seminal fluid, which is mixed with sperm to make semen, which the man ejaculates. With age, the gland may begin to grow - this happens to most men. The growth may eventually cause problems with urination because the gland pinches off the urethra as it increases its size. The growth in itself is harmless and consequently the condition is called benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH). This occurs most often in men above the age of 60. Up to 30 percent of men in their 70s have BPH which causes them symptoms.

The enlargement of the prostate gland stretches and distorts the urethra and therefore obstructs the urine flow. Symptoms include: a weak or interrupted urinary stream. Several attempts to empty the bladder may be necessary. Difficulty starting the urine flow even when the bladder feels full. A feeling the bladder is not completely empty. A need to urinate often during the day as well as during the night. Increased need to urinate in the night is usually a very early symptom. A need to urinate right away. Some men may experience involuntary discharge of urine. Dribbling of urine after urination. Burning sensation or pain during urination. Different men get different symptoms - the symptoms may also vary with each individual throughout the course of the disease. It is important to emphasize that the above symptoms do not necessarily prove that the prostate is enlarged. Other diseases may cause similar symptoms. Men with problems urinating should always see their doctor.

Researchers have studied whether having a vasectomy increases a man's risk for prostate cancer. Some studies suggest there may be such a link, but other studies have not supported this claim. Other studies show that farmers and workers exposed to the metal cadmium during welding, electroplating, or making batteries may have an increased risk of getting this disease. Also, workers in the rubber industry appear to develop prostate cancer more often than members of the general public. However, more research is needed to confirm these results. Scientists are also doing studies to determine whether BPH or a sexually transmitted virus increases the risk for prostate cancer. At this time, they do not have clear evidence of increased risk in either case.

The causes of BPH are not yet understood. Researchers are looking at factors that may increase the risk of this disease. The more they can learn about these risk factors, the better the chance of finding ways to prevent and treat prostate cancer. Studies in the United States show that BPH is found mainly in men over age 55; the average age of patients at the time of diagnosis is 72. This disease is more common in black men than in white men. In fact, black men in the United States have the highest rate of prostate cancer in the world. Doctors cannot explain why one man gets BPH and another does not, but they do know that no one can "catch" prostate cancer from another person. Prostate cancer is not contagious.

A general practitioner can often make the diagnosis on the following grounds. Patients will be asked about their symptoms and may also be asked to fill out a symptom questionnaire to let the doctor know the nature of the symptoms and how troublesome they are. They may also be asked to record their drinking and urination over a period of three days. By carrying out a rectal examination, the doctor can feel through the rectum wall whether or not the prostate is enlarged. Usually, the patient's urine will be examined, and may be sent for culture, when it will also be tested for sensitivity to antibiotics. Kidney function will also be examined by a blood test. If there is a need for further tests, they will usually be carried out by a specialist. He or she will be able to check for specific urinary functions like the flow rate of the urine and whether the bladder is emptied on urination. X-rays including ultrasound examinations and blood tests may be necessary. Many hospitals and a number of general practices have specialized prostate clinics where a full prostate check is carried out.

Scientists are studying the effects of diet. Some evidence suggests that a diet high in fat increases the risk of prostate cancer and a diet high in fruits and vegetables decreases the risk, but these links have not been proven.

Limit your fluid intake after 6 p.m and empty your bladder before retiring. Baths in water that is approximately 95 degrees F can boost circulation. Mild exercise is recommended. Try not to take antibiotics.

The effects of stress on prostate disorders is clearly underrated. Increased adrenalin which is typical in unmanaged stress causes both the neck of the bladder and prostate gland to react making urination more difficult. Learning to relieve stress and to find spiritual contentment helps to lower the risk of these types of degenerative diseases.