Just like women, men find that as they get older, certain parts of their body get larger. Think stomach and prostate gland. We could go on, but you get the picture. A man’s prostate gland can change from the size of a walnut up to as large as an orange, which is known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). When this happens later in life, it causes symptoms and sometimes complications. Can BPH be prevented?
The Muscular Prostate Gland
The prostate gland has a specific and rather important function. It creates most of the fluid for a man’s semen, and it helps to propel it through the penis during ejaculation. Part of the problem is its location. It surrounds the urethra and as it enlarges, it can squeeze the urethra and limit the amount of urine passed.
As a man ages, the prostate can grow to the size of an orange. It is quite common to have urinary issues, but it’s important to note that an enlarged prostate gland is not cancer.
Early Symptoms of BPH
One of the earliest symptoms of BPH is the need to pass urine more frequently.
Other signs include the following:
- The feeling of an incomplete emptying of the bladder
- Stopping and starting during urination
- Urgency, or a sudden need to urinate
- A weak stream
- Waking up several times during the night to urinate
These symptoms can cause blood in the urine and kidney damage if not treated. A severe case is not being able to urinate at all. This is serious and if this occurs, go to the nearest ER.
If you are having any of these issues, talk with Dr. Steven Gange about available treatments to help you find relief.
Preventing BPH
There is not much evidence that you can prevent your prostate from growing larger. Many believe this growth is due to hormonal changes as men get older.
There are some lifestyle changes you can make that may impact its growth.
Lose some weight if you are putting on the pounds, stay active and work up a sweat as your exercise, eat lots of vegetables and fruits, reduce your consumption of fatty foods, and limit alcohol.
Living a heart healthy lifestyle is key. Keep your blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol at healthy levels.
Don’t procrastinate if you are having any of the above symptoms of BPH.
Contact Dr. Steven Gange at (801) 993-1800 for an evaluation and available treatments in Salt Lake City, UT.