Prostate Enlargement

What is Prostate Enlargement?

Are you concerned about frequent urination? If you're male, the problem might be caused by prostate enlargement. Austin, TX, urologist Dr. Lucas Jacomides of Greater Austin Urology discusses the condition and explains treatment options.

What is prostate enlargement?

Prostate Enlargement in Austin, TX Prostate enlargement, formally called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), affects 50 percent of men ages 51 to 60 and 90 percent of men older than 80, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disorders. The prostate, the small, walnut-sized gland that produces fluid found in semen, starts to grow larger as you age. The enlarged gland presses against the urethra, causing you to visit the bathroom more often.

What are the symptoms of prostate enlargement?

If you have an enlarged prostate gland, you may need to urinate more often during the day and the night. In fact, frequent urination can interfere with your ability to get a good night's sleep. You may also notice that your urine stream seems weaker and that urine continues to dribble after you've finished urinating. Difficulty starting a urine flow and incontinence can also occur as a result of BPH.

Do I need to see a urologist if I think I have prostate enlargement?

Although an enlarged prostate gland is probably the reason for the change in your urinary habits if you're over 50, it's not a good idea to simply assume that you have BPH. The symptoms that commonly occur if you have prostate enlargement may also happen if you have other conditions or diseases, such as prostate or bladder cancer or a bladder infection. Fortunately, most men who visit our Austin office don't have cancer, but it's important to rule out more serious causes if you've noticed any changes.

How is prostate enlargement treated?

Mild symptoms can often be controlled by decreasing the amount of liquids you drink and staying away from substances and medications that may stimulate the bladder, such as alcohol, caffeine, decongestants, antihistamines and antidepressants. Bladder training and Kegel exercises may help also be helpful.

If your condition is severe, you may benefit from medications that shrink the prostate or stop its growth, or that reduce blockages, relax bladder muscles or improve urine flow. Surgical procedures that destroy tissue that's become enlarged or widen the urethral opening may also be needed.

Thanks to a variety of effective treatment options, you can manage your prostate enlargement symptoms and spend less time in the bathroom.

Worried you may be suffering from prostate enlargement?
Call Austin, TX, urologist Dr. Lucas Jacomides of Greater Austin Urology at (512) 540-3937 to schedule your appointment.

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