Living with Prostate Problems
Last Updated on Saturday, 01 March 2008 00:16
Common symptoms of BPH
Symptoms of BPH include increased frequency of urination, usually with frequent trips to the loo in the night, difficulty in starting to urinate, a weak stream, dribbling after finishing, or feeling of incomplete emptying of the bladder. The pattern and severity of symptoms varies man to man, but all are likely to find that BPH is a real bother.
Most men worry that the symptoms might mean prostate cancer. However prostate cancer is not commonly the cause of these urinary symptoms. There are also other less common but treatable causes for these symptoms, so it is very important to be checked promptly by your doctor.
About the Prostrate Gland
A man’s prostate gland sits underneath his urinary bladder. In encircles his urethra (the tube that transports urine from the bladder). One function of the prostate is to contribute to the fluid in which semen travel.
What causes BPH and the symptoms of BPH?
It is thought that hormonal changes, the result of ageing, produce enlargement of the prostate. Depending on the amount and site of the enlargement there is narrowing of the channel through the urethra. The bladder has to work harder than before to squeeze urine through the narrowed urethra. Therefore the main symptoms of BPH affect passing water.
Common BPH symptoms
-
Increased frequency of urination
-
Waking often in the night to urinate
-
Difficulty starting urine flow
-
A strong and immediate urge to urinate
-
A weak urine stream
-
Post-urination dribble
-
Feeling of incomplete bladder emptying
What can be done about BPH?
Take action. If you suspect BPH, see your doctor to discuss the symptoms and treatment options. Your doctor may choose to ‘wait and watch’ initially, because mild bothersome symptoms sometimes clear up by themselves.
Medication and or surgery are also available. There are several surgical procedures your doctor may wish to consider with you; your doctor may suggest medication to relieve the symptoms.
