One of the most common problems affecting men as they age is a condition known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or in simpler terms, an enlarged prostate. It’s a condition affecting millions of men worldwide and while it can be frustrating, it doesn’t have to control your life. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the cause of BPH, why it’s associated with age, and modern treatment options that can help you manage it. So, let’s get started….
The prostate is a small gland located below the bladder that supports male reproductive health. As men age, the prostate naturally enlarges, but when it presses on the urethra, it can cause symptoms like frequent urination (especially at night), weak urine flow, urgency, incomplete bladder emptying, and dribbling. These symptoms may also be linked to conditions like prostate cancer, bladder cancer, kidney stones, or overactive bladder.
According to Yale Medicine, nearly 50% of men aged 51 to 60 experience BPH, with rates rising to over 70% by age 60 and 80% for men over 70. Though BPH isn't life-threatening, untreated cases can significantly impact the quality of life.
No one knows for certain why some men develop BPH and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and others don’t. Although the prostate tends to enlarge to some extent as men age, not all men will need treatment. While several hormones are involved in the development of BPH, they are not the sole cause of the condition.
Some experts suggest that having a family history of BPH may increase a man’s risk of developing it. However, factors like sexual activity or having a vasectomy do not raise the likelihood of BPH. Research suggests that higher levels of physical activity help protect men from BPH, whereas a sedentary lifestyle is linked to an increased risk.
Fortunately, BPH is not linked to prostate cancer, but it is common in older men, with age being the biggest risk factor.
Though an enlarged prostate is common, it doesn’t mean it’s easy to live with. The symptoms of BPH can interfere with daily life in various ways:
Studies show that men with moderate to severe BPH symptoms report a significantly reduced quality of life.
Men with mild BPH symptoms may not require treatment and most doctors will recommend a ‘watch and see’ approach. Lifestyle changes such as watching what you eat, avoiding fluids before bedtime and lowering the consumption of diuretic drinks such as caffeine and alcohol can also be helpful.
Medication can help men to manage BPH although in more severe cases, surgery may be required. These include:
While medications can offer relief, they often come with side effects such as dizziness, fatigue, and even sexual dysfunction.
For more advanced cases, Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) has been a common surgical option. This procedure involves removing parts of the prostate to relieve symptoms. While effective, surgery can be invasive and lead to longer recovery times.
For men looking for less invasive treatments, Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) offers a groundbreaking alternative. This minimally invasive procedure works by cutting off the blood supply to the enlarged parts of the prostate, causing them to shrink.
PAE has become an increasingly popular treatment option, and it’s an excellent choice for men who want to avoid the downsides of medication or surgery. To learn more about this procedure, visit Mint STL, where experts specialize in providing personalized care for men with BPH.
Not every man with BPH will be a candidate for PAE, but many are. If you're someone who has tried medication or other less invasive methods without success—or if you're looking for a way to avoid surgery—PAE might be the right choice for you.
Ideal Candidates for PAE:
If you’re unsure whether PAE is the right treatment for you a consultation with a specialist can help determine your options.
BPH may be a natural part of aging, but it doesn’t have to dictate how you live your life. With innovative treatments like PAE, you can significantly improve your symptoms and reclaim control over your daily routine. Men who undergo PAE often report a dramatic reduction in their need to urinate frequently, better sleep, and fewer concerns about public embarrassment.
If you're dealing with the symptoms of an enlarged prostate, don’t wait to seek treatment. While BPH is common, the impact it can have on your life is significant. Whether you’re just starting to notice the symptoms or have been struggling with them for years, there are modern, minimally invasive solutions like PAE that can make a real difference.
Interested in learning more about Prostate Artery Embolization? Contact the team at Mint STL today for a consultation. Our specialists are here to help you explore your options and get you back to living your best life—without the burden of BPH.
