# data[].attributes.body
The exact cause of BPH is not well understood, but current understanding is that environmental and genetic factors play a role along with the influence of the sex hormones testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, or DHT, and estrogen

BPH is characterized by a progressive enlargement of the prostate gland, and causes varying degrees of urethral obstruction and restriction of urinary flow. BPH causes an increased number of epithelial and stromal cells in the paraurethral area of the prostate

# data[].attributes.body
Urinalysis - urine is checked for blood and bacteria

Urodynamic test - bladder is filled with liquid via a catheter to measure your bladder’s pressure during urination

Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test - blood test checks for cancer of the prostate. If abnormalities are found in the PSA the next step is a prostatic biopsy, this involves taking a small tissue sample from the prostate for analysis if found positive the tissue is staged using various scoring systems and staging methods.

Post-void residual - Tests the amount of urine left in your bladder after urination

Cystoscopy - This is the examination of your urethra and bladder with a tiny lighted scope that’s inserted into your urethra

# data[].attributes.body
Diagnosis is made on the basis of the symptoms. It is confirmed with a digital rectal examination (DRE). The enlarged prostate can be palpated on examination. A urinalysis is done to rule out the presence of infection causing symptoms. Pharmacological managements may also be a treatment option for BPH. The two major classes of drugs are 5-alpha reductase inhibitors and alpha-adrenergic blockers.

# data[].attributes.body
In BPH, prostatic refers to the prostate gland, hyperplasia means an increase in the number of cells, and benign means that these cells aren’t malignant, so they don’t invade neighboring tissues.

# data[].attributes.body
A benign (not cancer) condition in which an overgrowth of prostate tissue pushes against the urethra and the bladder, blocking the flow of urine.

# data[].attributes.body
Urinating as soon as you feel the urge

Going to the bathroom to urinate, even when you don’t feel the urge

Avoiding over-the-counter decongestants or antihistamine medications, which can make it harder for the bladder to empty

Avoiding alcohol and caffeine, especially in the hours after dinner

Reducing your stress level, as nervousness can increase the frequency of urination

Exercising regularly, as a lack of exercise can aggravate your symptoms

Keeping warm, since being cold can make symptoms worse

# data[].attributes.body
This condition is common in men over 50 and is often considered a normal part of aging

By the age of 60 around 50% of men develop BPH, and over 90% have it by the age of 85

Risk factors for developing BPH include obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and family history of BPH

# data[].attributes.attachment_caption
The symptoms of BPH are often very mild at first, but they become more serious if they aren’t treated

# data[].attributes.body
Incomplete bladder emptying

Nocturia, which is the need to urinate two or more times per night

Dribbling at the end of your urinary stream

Incontinence, or leakage of urine

Straining when urinating

A weak urinary stream

A sudden urge to urinate

A slowed or delayed urinary stream

Painful Urination

Blood in the urine

# data[].attributes.body
The prostate is a small, rubbery gland about the size of a ping-pong ball, located deep inside the groin, between the base of the penis and the rectum. The prostate is not essential for life, but it is important for reproduction.

Enlargement of the prostate is called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It occurs when the cells of the prostate gland begin to multiply. These additional cells cause your prostate gland to swell, which squeezes the urethra and limits the flow of urine.

# data[].attributes.body
Acute urinary retention, Urinary tract infection, bladder stones, bladder damage and kidney damage.

The stretching and weakening of the bladder wall muscles from incomplete emptying results in the bladder no longer contracting properly causing damage.

Increased pressure in the kidney secondary to urinary retention and backflow or urine causing hydronephrosis

# data[].attributes.body
The clinical manifestations are related to lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) which include difficulty starting the flow of urine even with straining, a weak stream of urine, multiple interruptions during urination, and dribbling once urination is complete. As the bladder becomes more sensitive to the retention of urine, incontinence may result.

# data[].attributes.body
Watchful waiting (recognition of the worsening symptoms and when to seek further treatment.)

Decreased liquid intake in the evening

Medication therapy education such as understanding the possible adverse effects of medications and contraindications with other medications.

# data[].attributes.body
Should I be worried? The short answer is, no. BPH can be considered a normal aging process.

The aims of BPH treatment is to minimize urinary symptoms. This is done through medication in the early stages to shrink the prostate, or surgery to remove excess prostate tissue if severe.

Therefore, we encourage those having issues to follow up on your condition regularly with your doctor.