Benign prostatic hyperplasia

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), formerly prostatic hypertrophy, is one of the commonest causes of voiding difficulty in middle-aged and elderly men; it is a benign lesion whose incidence rises with age, usually beginning after 40. Cause is unclear, possibly imbalance of epithelial/stromal proliferation and apoptosis; related factors include androgen-estrogen interaction, stromal-epithelial interaction, growth factors, inflammatory factors, neurotransmitters and heredity. Nodules arise in the transition zone and periurethral glands; enlarged glands bulge into the urethra and bladder, lengthening and narrowing the posterior urethra, increasing resistance and causing lower-tract obstruction; long-standing disease causes hydronephrosis and renal damage.

Common Symptoms

Frequency; urgency; weak stream; nocturia; urinary retention

Causes

Androgen-estrogen imbalance, stromal-epithelial interaction, growth factors and heredity cause nodular enlargement in the transition zone.

Treatment

Medication, surgery when needed

Prevention

Avoid holding urine, limit alcohol and caffeine, treat promptly.

Recommended Department

It is recommended to visit the urology department; before the visit you may first book an appointment and connect with experts through this platform.

Warm reminder: The above information is provided for health education reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek care at a regular hospital in time.