Symptoms of Enlarged Prostate

The prostate gland lies in an area that is situated beneath the bladder. Also, its position is such that it surrounds the urethra. Now what is the function of the prostate gland? The gland is responsible for producing a fluid known as semen. This very fluid serves the purpose of neutralizing the acidity of the vaginal tract, which otherwise, would cause the sperm to destruct before it reaches the egg for fertilization. In other words, the prostate gland is required to increase the chances of impregnation. Without it, the lifespan of the sperm that has been ejaculated into the vaginal tract, would be threatened, thus, reducing the chances of fertilization. Now, apart from fulfilling this important function, the gland also does the work of closing the urethra during sexual intercourse. This is the reason why urine does not leak out during ejaculation.

During infancy this gland is of the size of a pea. As childhood approaches, it starts growing with a gradual pace. When puberty strikes, the growth intensifies and at the age of 25, the gland achieves its fully developed form. For most men, this growth continues to an extent that the gland starts interfering with the normal urine flow by blocking it. This condition is known as prostate enlargement, clinically called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Experts are still dubious about what causes enlarged prostate. However, they have assumed that the condition may be related to the changes in the sex hormones as men age.

What are the Symptoms of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia?

Different individual may have different symptoms. Those which are common may include episodes of difficulty in starting urination, and dribbling at the end of it. While the urination is in progress, the flow may encounter a start and stop process. Frequent and strong urges to urinate is an important symptom of prostate enlargement. Although, urges may be frequent, the affected person may still feel an incompleteness in emptying his bladder, and a feeling of strain while urinating. As the condition progresses with time, the symptoms could occur in the form of the presence of blood in the urine, bladder stones and even impaired kidney function.

Most people might suppose that the size of the enlargement might be linked to the severity of the symptoms. But the fact is, it isn't. Studies have revealed that men with very large enlarged prostates were found to have minimal urinary symptoms. While, those who were diagnosed with a mild enlargement, had the worst of such symptoms. Also, it has been noticed that about half the men with this medical condition, had symptoms which were bothersome enough to make them seek medical attention. While, there are men, whose symptoms showed gradual declination and did improve with time.

Patients may avail a variety of options when it comes to the treatment of BPH. However, keeping in consideration a few number of factors, is what which decides the best treatment plan. These factors are age, size of the gland, other health conditions and overall health. The treatment includes medications, and when they are far from being effective, surgery is what is recommended. Again, there lots of options while opting for the surgery. Having discussions with the doctor will provide a great deal of help in opting for the right treatment.