Key Takeaways:
- Enlarged prostate is a common condition that affects mostly men over 50 and is typically diagnosed through physical exams, urinalysis, ultrasound and blood tests.
- Treatments that can be prescribed for this condition include medications and/or surgery.
- Advanced Urology Institute is the largest urology practice in Florida and provides expert care for prostate health and other urological conditions.
Exploring the Diagnosis of an Enlarged Prostate
The diagnosis of an enlarged prostate, also known as BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia) can be a scary experience. Understanding the diagnosis process and available treatments can help ease the stress of this condition. This article will explore the diagnosis of an enlarged prostate and approved treatments.
Definition of Enlarged Prostate
An enlarged prostate is a common condition among men over 50. As men age, the gland that surrounds the urethra (the tube that carries urine) can grow larger. This causes the urethra to be partially obstructed, thus increasing urinary frequency, urgency, and difficulty in starting and stopping a stream of urine. This condition affects mostly men over the age of 50 and can contribute to issues such as urinary tract infections and kidney problems if not diagnosed and treated properly.
Overview of Symptoms
Majority of men experiencing an enlarged prostate feel a general discomfort in their urinary tract. Symptoms can include:
- Continuous need to urinate
- Difficulty starting and stopping the flow of urine
- Urgency and increased frequency of urination
- Inability to empty the bladder completely
- Difficulty sleeping due to frequent urination
Diagnosis of Enlarged Prostate
Your doctor will diagnose an enlarged prostate by performing a physical exam, collecting a urine sample, and conducting various tests. These tests might include:
- Urinalysis: This test will detect protein and other substances in the urine that may suggest underlying disease is present.
- Ultrasound of the Prostate: This test uses sound waves to create an image of the prostate so the doctor can determine if it is enlarged.
- Blood Test: This test will measure the amount of urine the body is producing and how much of it is being retained.
Treatments for Enlarged Prostate
Once an enlarged prostate is diagnosed, treatments will be determined based on the severity of the condition and any underlying health conditions. Some treatments that can be prescribed are:
- Medications: These are typically prescribed to reduce the size of the prostate and/or reduce the production of hormones that can cause the prostate to increase in size.
- Surgery: If medications fail to reduce the size of the prostate, surgery may be recommended. The types of surgery performed includes transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) and open prostatectomy.
Conclusion
An enlarged prostate can range from mild and manageable to severe and debilitating. An accurate diagnosis is needed for effective treatment of this condition. Diagnosis is typically done through physical exams, urinalysis, ultrasound and blood tests. Once diagnosed, treatments that can be prescribed are medications and/or surgery. It’s important to speak with your doctor about the best course of treatment for your condition.
Advanced Urology Institute is the largest urology practice in Florida. With over 16 locations across the state, our team of experts can provide you the highest level medical care for prostate health and other urological conditions. Call us today to make an appointment.
References:
- “The growing problem of an enlarged prostate gland – Harvard Health.” https://www.health.harvard.edu/mens-health/the-growing-problem-of-an-enlarged-prostate-gland.
- “Treatment for enlarged prostate – Mayo Clinic Health System.” 15 Dec. 2021, https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/treatment-for-enlarged-prostate.
- “Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) – Diagnosis and treatment.” 21 Feb. 2023, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/benign-prostatic-hyperplasia/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20370093.
