Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia or BPH is an enlargement of the prostate that leads to urination problems. The condition is commonly found in men ages 51 to 60 and BPH is even more prevalent in men above 70.
According to a study published in the American Urology Association Journal, Black men and Hispanic/Latino men are 41% more likely to develop BPH than white men. Research indicates that many men with comorbidities – having more than one illness at once – are at a higher risk of BPH. Illnesses such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity and metabolic syndrome can greatly increase this risk. BPH can also be blamed on changes in hormone balance, cell growth and genetics. An enlarged prostate and prostate cancer can have similar symptoms. It’s important to contact a physician if you’re experiencing the following:
- Weak urine stream
- Difficulty urinating
- Stops and starts in the urine flow
- Bladder isn’t emptying completely
- Increase in the frequency of urination, especially at night
- Sudden urge to urinate
- Leaking after urination
- Straining to urinate
Socioeconomic and cultural barriers often result in treatment being less common in minority groups. Arkansas Urology strives to provide each and every patient with nondiscriminatory, life-changing care.
Arkansas Urology’s UroLift procedure treats BPH by lifting prostate tissue away from the urethra. The advantages include no cutting, heating or removal of prostate tissue, less bleeding, no sexual side effects and the procedure is minimally invasive. The good news is surgical treatment is typically a last resort reserved for rare cases.
Other minimally invasive BPH treatments include GreenLight laser and Water Vapor Therapy. GreenLight laser treatment evaporates and removes prostatic tissue that might be blocking the bladder. Water Vapor Therapy uses steam to vaporize excess prostate tissue and provide relief. In some cases, a catheter may be a temporary solution for individuals suffering from BPH.
If you suffer from BPH related symptoms, seek diagnosis and treatment and learn about your options with Arkansas Urology today!
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