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The prostate gland is a small organ in the male reproductive system.
Common prostate disorders include Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostatitis, and prostate cancer.
BPH is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate, while prostatitis is an inflammation of the prostate. Prostate cancer is a malignant tumor that develops in the prostate gland.
A more detailed look at these disorders:
BPH usually affects men over 50. It’s a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. Although the exact cause is unknown, hormonal changes that come with ageing could be an underlying factor.
Symptoms: The urinary symptoms can vary from difficulty in starting or stopping urination, frequently feeling like urinating (especially at night), a weak urine stream, and/or a feeling of incomplete bladder emptying.
Treatment: Treatment options range from lifestyle changes (e.g., reducing fluid intake before bed) to medications and minimally invasive surgery.
Prostatitis can be caused by bacterial infections, besides other factors, that can lead to inflammation of the prostate gland.
Symptoms: Urinary symptoms are similar to those of BPH and can include fever and pain in the pelvic area
Treatment: Depending on the cause and severity of the inflammation, antibiotics, or medications can be given to relieve symptoms.
Prostate cancer is a malignant tumor that develops in the prostate gland.
Symptoms: Early symptoms may not be noticeable, but later stages may cause urinary problems similar to BPH, as well as pain in the back, hips, or legs.
Treatment: Treatment options vary depending on the stage and aggressiveness of the cancer, and may include surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, or other approaches.
Endourology is a minimally invasive surgery used to treat BPH.
Whereas, Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) is a surgical procedure to treat an enlarged prostate gland, often due to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It involves removing tissue from the inside of the prostate to relieve urinary blockage.
No. An enlarged prostate does not increase a man’s risk of developing prostate cancer. But if BPH is left untreated the condition can worsen.
Usually by the age of 40 years, the prostate may be as large as an apricot, and by the age of 60 years, it may be the size of a tennis ball, lemon, or larger. These are estimates but see your urologist if you have the symptoms of prostate.
Yes. The most common and most effective permanent solution for prostate enlargement (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia or BPH) is transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), a surgical procedure that removes excess prostate tissue.