The prostate is a small gland located below the bladder and in front of the rectum. Its function is to release fluids that are mixed with sperm during ejaculation. If the prostate enlarges, it can become uncomfortable and cause various symptoms if left untreated. Here is information about enlarged prostates and three signs to watch for:
Understanding Enlarged Prostates
An enlarged prostate, or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is a common condition in men over the age of 50. As the prostate enlarges, it compresses the urethra, causing discomfort during urination. If you have a relative with BPH, you may have an increased risk of this condition.
If left untreated, an enlarged prostate can lead to worsening symptoms and complications. One issue caused by this condition is difficulty initiating urination, which may require you to urinate more often. The large prostate puts pressure on both the urethra and the muscles of the bladder, creating a constant feeling of needing to empty the bladder. This pressure can weaken the bladder muscles over time, making urination feel urgent and more frequent. As the gland pushes the bladder, it can also cause incomplete bladder emptying. Additional signs of a prostate that has become enlarged include:
1. Hematuria
An expanded prostate can be the cause of blood in the urine, which is also known as hematuria. There are two types of hematuria: gross and microscopic hematuria. Microscopic hematuria occurs when there is no visible blood in the urine. The blood can only be identified under microscopic assessment, which is referred to as urinalysis. Gross hematuria causes your urine to turn red or brown. When determining if BPH is the cause of hematuria, a specialist will evaluate your medical information, conduct a physical assessment, and perform a urinalysis.
2. Recurring Urinary Tract Infections
When an enlarged prostate gland obstructs urine flow, bacteria can build up and result in a urinary tract infection (UTI). A UTI can cause persistent infections and may become a recurring problem. To diagnose a UTI, a specialist will review your health history and sexual activity before confirming the infection. If they detect any signs of prostate enlargement, they may perform an X-ray of the prostate gland. UTIs are treated using a full course of antibiotics.
3. Nocturia
Nocturia, which refers to the frequent need to urinate during the night, is a key sign associated with BPH. As the prostate presses against the urethra, it can cause the bladder muscles to work harder to push urine through the narrowed urethra. This can lead to bladder overactivity and frequent urination, even at night. To treat nocturia, doctors may recommend medication or surgery, such as a prostatectomy.
Find Treatment for an Enlarged Prostate
Treating an enlarged prostate reduces discomfort and relieves urinary symptoms. It also prevents further complications, such as UTIs, bladder stones, and kidney damage. If your prostate is enlarged, talk to an experienced medical specialist today. They will help determine whether lifestyle changes, medications, or surgical procedures are suitable to treat your condition.
