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The Prostate
Prostate Gland Enlargement
PSA Test
Prostate Cancer
Prostate Gland Enlargement
The causes of prostate gland enlargement are unknown, but many
researchers believe that the prostate may become more
susceptible to the effects of male hormones, such as
testosterone, as the prostate gland ages. Many men experience
a phase of prostate growth in their 40s. During this prostate
growth spurt, cells in the center of the prostate, where it
surrounds the urethra, begin to produce more rapidly and the
tissue in the area becomes larger. These tissues often
compress the urethra, causing some blockage of urine flow.
This condition is
called Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). Prostate gland
enlargement affects 50% of men in their 60s, and 80% of men
over 80.
Prostate enlargement does not always present health
complications in all men. The extent of enlargement varies,
and it has been estimated that only 50% of men experiencing
prostate enlargement seek medical help.
Signs of prostate enlargement include; a weak urine stream,
problems starting to urinate, interrupted urination, dribbling
once urination is complete, frequent urge to urinate,
increased frequency of urination throughout the night (nocturia),
blood present in the urine and increased incidence of urinary
tract infection.
Diagnosing prostate gland enlargement usually involves a
review of any present symptoms, as well as a medical history,
including medications currently being taken. This will likely
be followed by a digital rectal exam. This may be followed by
a urine test, urinary flow test and PSA test.
Many men find that an enlarged prostate causes them few
problems. When the condition interferes with a man's ability
to drain his bladder, the condition is deemed serious. Health
risks associated with an inability to drain the bladder
include infections and kidney damage.
Once your doctor has assessed the severity of prostate
enlargement and it's potential health complications, a
treatment strategy will be developed. There are a number of
treatments for enlarged prostate, including medications, non
surgical therapies and surgical procedures.
The Digital Urology Channel
offers
information about the prostate and prostate gland diseases
and conditions. The
Prostate
Cancer Coalition website is an excellent resource for
those managing the disease.
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