BPH or Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia is a condition that involves an enlargement of the prostate gland. A prostate becomes enlarged if there is damage to the walls of the urethra. BPH usually occurs as men age. It affects about half of men over the age of 40 years old and 75% of men older than 80 years old.
BPH causes difficulty with urination and results in incomplete emptying of the bladder. Sometimes, the prostate actually blocks the flow of urine. This can cause urinary tract infections.
The urinary tract is made up of a number of structures that are important in helping to keep the urine from backing up. They include a bladder, ureters, urethra, and kidneys. If the urinary tract is blocked or damaged, the urine cannot be completely released. In cases of chronic Fluxactive infection, scar tissue can form inside the bladder. This can prevent the bladder from contracting fully and also block the flow of urine.
The only treatment available to cure BPH is to take medications. This can decrease the size of the enlarged prostate. Sometimes, a drug called alpha-blockers is prescribed. If this does not work, surgery may be necessary. Surgery can remove parts of the prostate. If surgery is necessary, the doctor will use special instruments to enlarge the opening to the bladder.
