Do you have an enlarged prostate that’s causing you concern? While prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers for men, an enlarged prostate doesn’t necessarily mean cancer.
In this article, explore the numerous misconceptions that are made about enlarged prostates, and get the facts about them. Read on to learn more about an enlarged prostate, what could be causing it, and what you can do to keep it under control.
What Is an Enlarged Prostate?
An enlarged prostate is a common enlargement of the prostate gland. While some with this condition might need surgery, many can take supplements for the prostate. Your prostate is about the size of a walnut.
It creates a fluid that helps nourish sperm. Some signs of an enlarged prostate can include urinating frequently, urinary retention, and blood in the urine. Also, if you notice a dribbling or slow urine flow, you’ll want to speak to your doctor.
Researchers aren’t sure what the exact cause of an enlarged prostate is. One theory is that as you age your body creates fewer hormones (testosterone) and estrogen.
When your testosterone decreases, that means the more estrogen that’s in your body. Estrogen can help promote prostate cell growth.
Another theory is that as you age, DHT (male hormone dihydrotestosterone), might cause the prostate gland to grow. Your prostate plays a role in fertility since it releases seminal fluid for the sperm.
Once the fluid is produced, it’s stored in your seminal vesicles. Your prostate gland sits around the urethra.
1. It Can Mean Cancer
False. Another name for an enlarged prostate is what’s known as BPH (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia). Along with this, it can mean trouble emptying your bladder, and frequent urination.
As you age, your prostate continues to grow, and the symptoms can progress. It’s a treatable condition that you shouldn’t have to suffer from.
One common misconception is that BPH means cancer. Having an enlarged prostate doesn’t mean prostate cancer. When your prostate is enlarged it’s not related to cancer. At the same time, if your prostate is a normal size, that doesn’t mean you’re cancer-free either. Speak with your doctor about any concerns about cancer, and make sure to get checked annually.
2. Having Surgery for BPH Can Help Prevent Prostate Cancer
False. Some go through what’s known as transurethral resection of the prostate. This is where your doctor cuts the enlarged tissues to help with any urinary problems.
As with any surgery, there can be complications and side effects. If you’re not having all of your prostate tissue removed, then there’s still a chance of prostate cancer.
3. It’s Just Part of the Aging Process
False. Many think that it’s part of the aging process and nothing can be done about it. There are different medications you can take for your prostate instead of having to go through surgery.
4. It Only Affects the Aging
False. You can develop an enlarged prostate at a younger age as well. Some men in their 40s have reported BPH. If you have urinary problems, it doesn’t mean you have BPH. Speak to your doctor about diagnosing an enlarged prostate.
The Dangers of Letting BPH Go
You might be tempted to ignore your symptoms from an enlarged prostate. As your prostate grows, it pushes against the urethra. This pressing and narrowing causes a urinary obstruction.
When you have a urinary obstruction it can make it difficult to urinate. If you let it go without doing anything about it, it can cause permanent damage to your urinary system. Make sure to have a prostate exam from your doctor.
An enlarged prostate normally affects the transitional zone of the prostate. Prostate cancer normally affects the peripheral zone. Your transitional zone is where urine goes through, hence urinary problems.
If you have prostate cancer and let it go, it can spread to other parts of your body such as the bladder and bones. Don’t leave cancer or an enlarged prostate unchecked.
When Should You Contact Your Doctor Regarding BPH?
If you have any questions or concerns you should always reach out to your doctor. If you notice urinary problems that don’t get better, you’ll want to reach out to your doctor and let them know.
When you’re urinating frequently that can impact your quality of life. If you experience serious symptoms such as nausea, fever, chills, and blood in your urine, you’ll want to contact your doctor immediately.
If you notice that you feel full but can’t urinate, you’ll want to go to an emergency center immediately. They can do bladder drainage with a catheter. If you’re 50 and older, you should have your prostate checked every year at your physician’s office.
Tests for BPH
There are different tests your doctor can do to check for BPH. It can be hard to diagnose BPH since symptoms can be similar to bladder and kidney problems, as well as a urinary tract infection.
When you go in for your prostate exam for BPH, your doctor will ask you different questions such as any current medications and health questions.
Your doctor can do a digital rectal examination to feel if your prostate is enlarged. They might also order a PSA, blood, or urine test. Another option is what’s known as a urodynamic test.
A urodynamic test will check to see how well you’re able to hold and release urine. Another option is what’s known as a prostate biopsy. Your doctor will give you medicine so you won’t feel the pain.
Exploring All About the Common Myths of an Enlarged Prostate
Now that you’ve explored all about the common myths of an enlarged prostate, you should be better equipped to decide if you currently suffer from this. Are you ready to get your enlarged prostate under control and get your life back? Order our Prostate 911 today which is made with all-star ingredients.