What is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)?

A condition that results in enlarged prostate is referred to as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). The prostate gland contributes to the production of sperm in men, and it is fairly common for the prostate gland to grow larger as one gets older.

An enlarged prostate is not something that should cause you a great deal of anxiety, but at the same time if you do nothing about it, it could trigger issues in a number of different ways.

For Example, obstructions in urine flow down the bladder, discomfort in the urinary tract, and kidney difficulties.

What Causes an Enlarged Prostate?

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia is influenced by a number of circumstances however, the precise cause of the condition is not completely understood. The chief contributors to Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) in men are:

Hormonal Changes Associated with Aging

As men get older, their testosterone levels continue to fall, while their estrogen scale either remain the same or increase. An imbalance in hormones is thought to be the primary contributing factor in the growth of the prostate.

Dihydrotestosterone, also known as DHT

A significant role for the formation and growth of your prostate gland is played by this testosterone derivative. The accumulation of increased levels of DHT of prostate, which can lead to enlargement, is more likely to occur in older men.

Lifestyle and Health 

Excessive body weight can have an effect on hormone levels and contribute to the enlargement of the prostate for people who are obese.

An insufficient amount of physical activity has been associated with an increased risk for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Diabetes

Men with diabetes have an increased chance of developing benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
Cardiovascular Health is connected to the health of the prostate, and there is a correlation between the two, according to specific research.

Symptoms of Enlargement of the Prostate

BPH, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia, is a condition that usually affects men as they get older. It is characterized by an enlarged prostate.

The prostate gland, which is located below the bladder results in the urethra to enlarge, which can cause a variety of urinary symptoms as well as other health problems.

For efficient management of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, it is essential to have a solid understanding of BPH’s symptoms and how they affect one’s day-to-day life.

Difficulty with Urine Flow

If you are suffering with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, you would often experience difficulty in starting urination and finally emptying your bladder. This occurs because the enlarged prostate compresses the urethra and makes it harder for urine to flow completely out the bladder.

Weak Urine Flow

The most common symptom of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia is a noticeable decrease in the strength and volume of the urine stream. Because of an enlarged prostate the urethra narrows down in size and restricts urine flow, leading to a weak stream.

Urgency to Urinate

Patients with an enlarged prostate sometimes get a sudden, strong urge to urinate which can cause difficulty in delaying urination. This urgency can lead to situations were finding a restroom quickly becomes a priority.

Frequent Urination

An enlarged prostate gland can cause an increase in the need to urinate, especially during the night (nocturia). This can significantly disrupt sleep patterns and daily activities.

Effects of BPH on daily life

Disturbed Sleep

For patients with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, it is possible for them to have a disturbed sleep routine because of frequent urination during the night. This insufficient amount of sleep can result in feelings of exhaustion, lower attention, and a general drop in productivity throughout the day.

Reduced Physical Activity

Men with suffering with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia can be demotivated from participating in activities when there is restricted access to restrooms due to the urgency and frequency of urine flow.

This might result in a lifestyle that is defined as sedentary, which in turn can have an impact on one’s general health and fitness.

Stress and Anxiety

The constant need to be near a restroom can cause significant stress and anxiety. Men with BPH symptoms may worry about embarrassing accidents or being in situations where they cannot easily access a restroom.

Professional Challenges

The enlargement of the prostate can cause the need for frequent bathroom breaks and can affect work performance and decrease productivity.

Men may feel self-conscious about their condition, leading to decreased confidence in professional settings as well.

Traditional Treatments options for Enlarged Prostate

TURP (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate)

TURP, which stands for transurethral resection of the prostate, is a surgical procedure that is used to treat patients suffering with BPH symptoms, which is a condition that is characterized by an enlarged prostate gland.

For surgical treatment of BPH, TURP is the go-to option, but has its own downsides as well.

This procedure is carried out with the use of a resectoscope, which is an instrument that is introduced into the urethra through the tip of the penis.

The resectoscope is equipped with a light, valves that allow the irrigating fluid to be controlled, and an electrical loop that facilitates the cutting of prostate tissue and then sealing of blood arteries.

Risks and Side Effects of Transurethral resection of the Prostate (TURP)

When compared to other surgical procedures risks associated with TURP (Transurethral Resection of the prostate) is comparatively high since it’s performed on a highly sensitive organ such as the penis.

Some of the possible complications include:

Excessive Bleeding

Bleeding during and after the procedure is quite common. But in rare cases, significant bleeding may require a complete blood transfusion.

Infection

There is a risk of infection at the surgical site or in the urinary tract. Antibiotics are often prescribed to prevent infections and further complications.

Retrograde Ejaculation

Is when your semen flows backward into the bladder instead of out through the penis during ejaculation and is a common side effect. This can have a severe effect on fertility outcomes too.

Urethral Stricture

Scarring of your urethra during the procedure, can lead to narrowing and blockage, requiring further treatment.

Enlarged Prostate Treatment without Surgery

Non-Surgical Solution to treat an Enlarged Prostate

With Centuries worth of knowledge combines with advancements in technology and medicine, today there are multiple non-surgical solutions to various ailments and diseases that the common man in unaware of.

One such solution to treat an enlargement in the prostate gland is PAE (Prostate Artery Embolization)

Benefits of Non-Surgical Treatments

Minimally Invasive

Non-Surgical techniques do not involve large incisions, cuts to be made during the procedures which is a huge advantage over traditional surgeries.

Since they are highly advanced treatments, latest methods like using a catheter to treat ailments along with imaging techniques provide the patient with minimal scarring and a faster recovery phase. These procedures are usually performed by an interventional radiologist.

Day Care Procedures

Non-surgical solutions do not require the patients to get admitted for days to the hospital. In most cases, the patient can return home the very same day.

They can also continue with their regular activities within a few days.

Minimal Side Effects

When compared to traditional surgical methods which usually involve open surgeries, non-surgical solutions have minimal side effects on the body.

What is Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia?

Prostate Artery Embolization is an innovative technique used to treat an enlarged prostate with minimal post-effects on the body.

Usually, PAE is performed by an interventional radiologist by releasing microscopic particles into the arteries that feed the prostate gland. These particles block the blood that flows into the gland and then with time, the size of your prostate decreases.

While other treatments show an alarming impact on men’s health in general, PAE involves low risks and anyone who undergoes this procedure can return back to their normal routine within a couple of days.

How PAE (Prostate Artery Embolization) helps treat an enlarged prostate?

The procedure involves placing a tiny catheter into the arteries that supply blood to the prostate gland. A solution containing thousands of microscopic plastic beads is injected, which in turn blocks the blood flow to the gland. This is done through a small hole that is pierced through the groin.

General anesthesia is not required since the pain is almost unrecognizable, and the patients are discharged during the same course of the day.

With time the prostate gland decreases in size since it is deprived of its blood supply. And thereby the urethra opens for urine to flow normally.

The procedure does not have any negative effect on one’s sexual function and on the contrary a small percentage of patients have experienced an improvement in their overall sexual function

Advantages of Prostate Artery Embolization Over TURP

Minimally invasive in nature

Prostate Artery Embolization is a minimally invasive technique which does not involve any large incisions to be made.

Faster Recovery

Since the procedure is minimally invasive and a non-surgical technique, it provides the patient to recover swiftly when compared other traditional surgical alternatives.

Lower risk of complications

Prostate Artery Embolization being a non-surgical solution to treat Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, reduces the risk of complications significantly since it does not involve major cuts, incisions to be made.

Preservation of Sexual function and Urinary control

The procedure does not have any negative effect on one’s sexual function and on the contrary a small percentage of patients have experienced an improvement in their overall sexual function and urinary control.

When to See a Doctor for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia?

BPH, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia, is a condition that is rather common, particularly in men who are older in age. It is defined by the expansion and enlargement of the prostate gland. While BPH itself is not cancerous, it can cause uncomfortable urinary symptoms that significantly affect the quality of life.

In order to effectively manage this condition, it is crucial to be aware of when it is necessary to seek medical assistance.

Frequent Urination

If you find out that you need to urinate more frequently than normal, especially during the night (also known as nocturia), it may be time to make an appointment with a medical professional.

Urgency

A sudden and pressing need to urinate that is impossible to postpone can be an indication that there is a problem within the body.

When you detect a noticeable decrease in the strength and volume of your urine stream, this may be a sign that you have BPH.

Difficulty Beginning Urination

Being hesitant or having to exert effort in order to start urinating is a typical symptom that should be evaluated by a medical professional.

Interrupted Urine Flow

If your urine stream gets interrupted and starts and stops at random intervals, this could be an indication of an obstruction that is produced by an enlarged prostate.

Incomplete Bladder Emptying

If you continuously get the sensation that your bladder is not totally empty after you have finished urinating, you should consider visiting a healthcare professional.

Painful Urination

If you experience pain or discomfort while urinating, this may be a sign of benign prostatic hyperplasia, and it is important to get checked.

Blood in Urine

Hematuria, also known as blood in the urine, is a significant symptom that need to be treated by a medical professional as soon as possible.

FAQ’s About Prostate Artery Embolization

1. Who is a suitable candidate for PAE?

PAE is for men with an enlarged prostate and men who experience urinary flow problems. Also, for people who have not responded well to medications and wish to avoid traditional surgical treatments like TURP.

2. Is PAE a permanent solution for enlarged prostate?

PAE can provide long-lasting relief from urinary symptoms associated with enlarged prostate along with improved sexual function as well.

3. What is the recovery time after Prostate Artery Embolization?

Patients can return to their regular activities within a few days after PAE, with minimal discomfort and shorter recovery compared to traditional surgeries like TURP.