Following tests, I was told that at the age of 50 I have benign prostatic hyperplasia. Although my GP explained it to me, I seem to have forgotten everything he said.
Benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH) is caused by enlargement of the prostate gland and is a common disorder in men over 45 years. Although it rarely causes problems before the age of 50, by the age of 55, 50 per cent of men will notice problems with their "waterworks". Symptoms include frequency of urination, the urge to urinate with little warning and waking at night to empty the bladder. Difficulty starting a urine stream, decreased force or dribbling and complete urinary obstruction may also occur.
Why does it happen?
The prostate is a gland about the size of a walnut and is situated around the urethra - the tube passing from the bladder to the penis. Its main job is to produce substances that make up part of the semen. When the prostate gland enlarges, it squeezes the urethra, making it difficult for urine to pass through. Diagnosis of the condition is usually made by a physical examination of the rectum to see if the gland is enlarged. An assessment of urine volume and force, blood tests and special X-rays will be carried out. You will also be asked about any other medication you are taking. In addition to alcohol, drugs for the treatment of Parkinson's disease, depression and those used to treat an irregular heart beat can aggravate the problem.
What are the treatment options?
Medical treatment options include drugs that improve the flow of urine - some help shrink the enlarged gland; others relax the smooth muscle of the prostate and the neck of the bladder thereby relieving obstruction. Surgical options include a transurethral resection of the prostate (Turp) where some or all of the gland is removed.
However, about one in three sufferers manage their condition with medication and lifestyle changes, such as avoiding fluids for at least three hours before bedtime and emptying the bladder completely when you go.
Marion Kerr