Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia:
The prostate glands are walnut-like glands located between the penis and the urinary bladder. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (also benign prostatic hypertrophy) is a medical condition of the prostate gland. This condition is characterized by enlargement of the prostate glands. This common condition starts to develop in men from the age of 30s, but they show symptoms only after they reach the age of 50s. More than 50% of men in their 50s tend to develop this condition, but only a few of them need surgical intervention. A major metabolite of testosterone is known to contribute to BPH. In this condition, the prostate glands enlarge and start to compress the urinary bladder. This leads to urinary retention, and the urge to urinate frequently. Symptoms of this condition include pain during urination, urinary retention, urge incontinence, slowing down of the urinary stream, urinary tract infections, and in rare cases, injury to the kidneys. This condition is more common among men with a family history of benign prostatic hyperplasia, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and sedentary lifestyles. Intake of certain medications is also known to exacerbate this condition. These include anticholinergics, and calcium channel blockers. Diagnosis of this condition is made on the basis of symptoms, digital rectal exam, and urinalysis. Treatment options include lifestyle modifications for those who have mild symptoms. Other treatment options include medications like alpha blockers, and 5-alpha reductase inhibitors. In severe cases, surgery is opted.
