Prostate enlargement is a very common and natural part of aging for men. It’s a non-cancerous condition that affects the prostate gland. While the exact cause is not fully understood, it is strongly linked to hormonal changes as men get older.
For many men, BPH is more of an inconvenience than a serious health issue, but it can significantly impact quality of life due to its effect on urinary function. Let us understand What is the Main Cause of Prostate Enlargement, its risk factors, and available treatments can help you manage the condition effectively.
On this Page
What is Prostate Enlargement?
Prostate Enlargement, also known as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), is a very common condition where the prostate gland grows larger than its normal size. This is not cancer and does not increase your risk of developing prostate cancer.
As the prostate enlarges, it can press on the urethra, which can lead to a variety of urinary symptoms. BPH is strongly linked to aging and is more prevalent in older men. The exact cause is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to hormonal changes that occur as men get older.
Understand What the Prostate Gland does!
What is the Main Cause of Prostate Enlargement?
The primary cause of prostate enlargement is believed to be hormonal changes that occur with age. As men get older, their bodies produce less testosterone and more of other hormones, such as dihydrotestosterone and oestrogen.
- Dihydrotestosterone (DHT): This is a male hormone derived from testosterone. High levels of DHT in the prostate are thought to stimulate the growth of prostate cells. Research suggests that men who do not produce DHT do not develop BPH, which points to its crucial role in prostate growth.
- Oestrogen: While typically considered a female hormone, men also produce small amounts of oestrogen. As men age, the amount of oestrogen in their bodies increases. This rise in oestrogen levels is also believed to contribute to prostate cell growth, making the gland larger.
It’s important to note that BPH is not related to Prostate Cancer, and having an enlarged prostate does not increase your risk of developing cancer. However, the symptoms of BPH and prostate cancer can sometimes be similar, which is why it is essential to get a proper diagnosis from a healthcare professional.
But does an enlarged prostate affect a man sexually? Check here.
Are you at risk of BPH?
While the hormonal changes of ageing are the main drivers of BPH, several other factors can increase your risk of developing the condition:
- Age: BPH is extremely common in older men. It’s rare in men under 40, but by the age of 60, over 50% of men show signs of BPH, and by 80, this figure rises to over 90%.
- Family History: If a close male relative, such as your father or brother, has BPH, your risk is higher.
- Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as obesity, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes, have been linked to an increased risk of BPH.
- Lifestyle: A sedentary lifestyle and a diet high in processed foods may also increase your risk.
What is the Treatment for Prostate Enlargement?
The good news is that BPH is highly treatable, and the right course of action depends on the severity of your symptoms and your overall health.
- Lifestyle Changes: For mild symptoms, simple changes can make a big difference. This includes reducing fluid intake before bed, limiting alcohol and caffeine, and trying to train your bladder to hold more urine for longer periods.
- Medication: Several types of medication are available to treat BPH.
- Alpha-blockers help to relax the muscles in the prostate and bladder neck, making it easier to urinate.
- 5-alpha reductase inhibitors work by shrinking the prostate gland.
- Minimally Invasive Procedures: When medication isn’t enough, minimally invasive procedures can provide relief. These include Prostatic Urethral Lift (PUL), which uses small implants to hold the enlarged prostate tissue away from the urethra, and steam therapy, which uses water vapour to destroy excess prostate tissue.
- Surgery: In more severe cases, surgical options may be recommended. The most common procedure is a Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP), which involves surgically removing part of the prostate gland to relieve pressure on the urethra.
Conclusion
In conclusion, What is the main cause of prostate enlargement? It is the natural hormonal changes that occur as men age. While the condition is a normal part of getting older, it can cause uncomfortable urinary symptoms. Fortunately, BPH is highly treatable.
Consult the Experienced General Practitioner in Essex to discuss the best treatment options for your specific situation.
FAQs
1. Can an enlarged prostate be a sign of cancer?
No, an enlarged prostate (BPH) is not a sign of cancer and does not increase your risk of developing it. For both the conditions, symptoms can be similar, so it’s important to get a proper diagnosis.
2. Is there a cure for BPH?
There isn’t a single cure, but BPH can be effectively managed and treated. Treatments range from lifestyle changes and medication to minimally invasive procedures and surgery, depending on the severity of the symptoms.
3. Does BPH affect sexual function?
While BPH itself does not directly affect a man’s ability to have an erection, some of the medications used to treat it can have side effects that impact sexual function. It is important to discuss any concerns with your doctor.
4. How is an enlarged prostate diagnosed?
A doctor will usually perform a physical exam, which may include a digital rectal exam (DRE). They may also order a PSA blood test and other tests to rule out other conditions and assess the size of the prostate and the severity of symptoms.
5. Can lifestyle changes help manage BPH symptoms?
Yes, lifestyle changes can be very effective for managing mild symptoms. These can include reducing fluid intake before bed, avoiding caffeine and alcohol, and doing pelvic floor exercises.
