Many people know that prostate enlargement usually comes with age, and about half of men age 75 years and older have this condition. Prostate gland enlargement or its medical term, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) involves the growth of prostate gland cells or tissue. Because the urethra is structurally in between the prostate glands, enlargement of the prostate may lead to problems with urination.
So, the question is, “Is BPH dangerous?”. Read furthermore to know the answer.
Male Sexual Development
According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) of the US Department of Health and Human Services, there are two phases of prostate gland growth. It doubles in size during early puberty for the first phase and the second phase starts at the age of 25. The prostate gland naturally increases its size as a man advances with age.
With that being said, prostate gland enlargement or BPH is not necessarily dangerous. However, if it starts causing problems, then it needs prompt attention. A lot of men with prostate gland enlargement have no signs and symptoms, while others show signs of lower urinary tract symptoms.
Signs and Symptoms of BPH
According to UC San Diego Health, enlarged prostate blocks or squeezes the urethra, and the signs and symptoms can be annoying. BPH can disrupt activities of daily living and hinders men from pursuing their passion, hobbies, and a successful career.
Remember, age is just a risk factor, and BPH can develop at any age. Luckily, before you even experience the signs and symptoms, dietary supplements, like Prostagenix, are now available to help prevent and aid in the treatment of prostate gland enlargement.
Over-the-counter medicines, like pseudoephedrine (Sudafed), oxymetazoline spray (Afrin), and diphenhydramine (Benadryl) may worsen the signs and symptoms of BPH. Also, prescription medications can negatively impact prostate gland enlargements, such as testosterone, water pills, antidepressants, and pain medicine.
Men usually consult a urologist when they always wake up at night to urinate. It can be a hassle working and needing to go to the bathroom every 15 or 20 minutes. Signs and symptoms get worse due to emotional or physical stress or cold weather.
Here are the signs and symptoms of BPH:
- Difficulty starting urination
- Difficulty stopping urination
- Leaking or dribbling
- A weak stream
- Increased nighttime urination
- Constant urge to urinate
- Incomplete emptying of the bladder or feeling of bladder fullness even after urinating
BPH May Cause Urinary Complications
Because BPH cannot be cured, medical intervention focuses on reducing the urinary signs and symptoms. The recommended treatment highly depends on the severity of the signs and symptoms and the presence of complications. Prostate enlargement doesn’t necessarily mean you’re at a higher risk of developing prostate cancer.
BPH can be bothersome because of the irritating signs and symptoms. When your quality of life and normal activities are disrupted, you need more aggressive treatment to your BPH. Some of the complications of an enlarged prostate include urinary tract infection (UTI), bladder stones, blood in the urine or hematuria, or kidney damage. Surgical intervention is required to prevent complications and avoid aggravating these conditions.
Here are the warning signs and symptoms of possible BPH complication:
- Completely unable to urinate
- Painful urination
- Body aches
- Chills
- Fever 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or 38 degrees Celsius)
- Lower back pain (below the rib cage)
- Blood or pus in the urine or semen
BPH Can Affect Sex Life
Men with an enlarged prostate are wondering how BPH can affect sex life. BPH may have several effects on overall health, including sex life. Sexual problems may arise, and the extent varies according to the prostate gland’s condition. Sexual activities are affected by BPH because of several contributory factors like age, anxiety, and genetics.
Here are the sexual side effects of BPH:
- Decreased libido
- Reduced sexual satisfaction
- Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
- Problems sustaining erection
Is Enlarged Prostate Gland Dangerous?
Yes, it’s dangerous if you neglect the signs and symptoms. That’s why early consultation and treatment to manage the condition should be carried out.
Eating a balanced diet, enough exercise, get adequate rest and sleep, and avoiding triggering factors that may worsen the signs and symptoms should be implemented.
Conclusion
While enlargement of the prostate occurs naturally as a man grows older, Benign Prostate Hyperplasia can be dangerous if you experience the signs and symptoms of urinary complications. That’s why seeking a urologist is important if you already notice early manifestations of BPH. A urologist helps check the food and medications you take just to make sure they don’t worsen the signs and symptoms of BPH.
