What is Enlarged Prostate (Benign Prostate Hyperplasia)?
Vascular & Interventional Specialists specializes in interventional radiology procedures for the diagnosis and treatment of various conditions, including benign prostate hyperplasia or BPH. Our experienced physicians and medical staff are committed to providing advanced enlarged prostate care and personalized attention to every patient we serve.
We offer minimally invasive and innovative treatment and care for patients diagnosed with enlarged prostate. With multiple locations across South Dakota, Nebraska and Iowa, you can get the care you need without traveling too far.
What Does Enlarged Prostate Mean?
The prostate is a walnut-sized gland located between the bladder and the penis and produces a fluid that nourishes and protects sperm. Enlarged prostate, also known as benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH), is a common, non-cancerous condition that affects men beginning around age 40 when the prostate gland grows in size and presses against the urethra, causing urinary problems.
Causes of Enlarged Prostate
The exact cause of BPH is not known, but it is believed to be related to aging and changes in hormone levels. This hormonal imbalance may contribute to the growth of the prostate gland. It is estimated that over 50% of men in their 60s and up to 90% of men in their 70s and 80s have some degree of prostate enlargement.
Risk Factors
The risk of developing BPH increases with:
- Age — an enlarged prostate rarely causes symptoms prior to age 40.
- Family history of BPH — If you have a blood relative with prostate problems, you are more likely to develop them as well.
- Obesity — Exercise can help lower your risk.
Diabetes and heart disease — Certain medical conditions may increase your risk.
Signs and Symptoms of Enlarged Prostate
The symptoms of BPH can vary from person to person but may include:
- Frequent urination, especially at night (nocturia)
- Difficulty starting urination
- Weak urine flow or dribbling
- A feeling of incomplete bladder emptying
- Straining to urinate
- A urinary stream that starts and stops
- Urinary urgency or hesitation
Regular preventative check ups as you age are important for checking for a range of health issues. At Vascular & Interventional Specialists, our expert medical staff will listen to your symptoms and help lay out the best course of action going forward.
If you are ever in doubt regarding a symptom you’ve noticed, reach out to your specialist for an appointment.
Diagnosing Benign Prostate Hyperplasia
To diagnose BPH, physicians will typically perform a physical exam, including a digital rectal exam, to assess the size and shape of the prostate gland. They may also order additional tests, such as a urine flow test or a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test, to rule out other conditions, such as prostate cancer.
Treatment and Prevention
At Vascular & Interventional Specialists, we provide advanced care for people diagnosed with an enlarged prostate. Using leading-edge vascular and interventional radiology technology, our specialists can provide innovative prostate treatment that can reduce the size of the prostate and help relieve symptoms without the need for invasive surgery.
Your vascular specialist can also provide personalized advice to help you make lifestyle changes to lower your risk of BPH or reduce its symptoms, such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and limiting alcohol and caffeine intake.