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What Happens If BPH Is Left Untreated?
BPH, or enlarged prostate..., is a common issue among guys aged 50 and above. It's when the prostate gland, a reproductive gland below the bladder, gets bigger and squeezes the tube that carries urine out (the urethra). This can mess with your ability to pee and even affect your sex life. Read more
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Last Updated : 1 year ago
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If you don't treat BPH, it can cause problems like not being able to fully empty your bladder or trouble having sex. Therefore, it's essential to address these issues in time for a healthier and happier life.
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What Happens if BPH is Left Untreated?
Untreated BPH can have various dangerous implications. Understanding the potential dangers of untreated BPH and why seeking timely medical intervention is crucial. Let us discuss the dangers of leaving BPH untreated in detail.
- Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Untreated BPH can increase the risk of recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs). An enlarged prostate can obstruct the flow of urine, leading to urinary stasis, which creates an environment conducive for bacterial growth. UTIs can cause discomfort, pain, and frequent urination, and if left untreated, they can progress to more severe kidney infections.
- Acute Urinary Retention (AUR): One of the most distressing complications of untreated BPH is acute urinary retention (AUR). AUR occurs when the enlarged prostate blocks the urethra, preventing the normal passage of urine. This sudden inability to urinate can cause severe pain, discomfort, and urinary bladder distension. AUR often requires immediate medical intervention, including catheterization or even emergency surgery.
- Bladder Stones: Chronic urinary retention due to untreated BPH can lead to the formation of bladder stones. These stones develop when concentrated minerals in the urine crystallize and accumulate in the bladder. Bladder stones can cause pain, blood in the urine, and recurrent urinary tract infections. In some cases, surgical intervention may be required to remove the stones.
- Kidney Damage: Untreated BPH can result in long-term complications such as kidney damage. When urine flow is obstructed, the pressure in the urinary system increases, which can impair kidney function over time. If left untreated, this can lead to chronic kidney disease, kidney infections, and even kidney failure.
- Reduced Quality of Life: Aside from the physical risks and complications, untreated BPH can significantly impact a man's overall quality of life. Symptoms such as frequent urination, nocturia (waking up at night to urinate), weak urinary stream, and urinary urgency can disrupt daily activities, interfere with sleep, and cause social embarrassment. Untreated BPH may also lead to psychological distress, including anxiety and depression.
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What is the Ideal Treatment For BPH?
The ideal treatment for BPH depends on the severity of the condition, the size of the prostate and the underlying health conditions. BPH is a benign growth of the prostate gland that can lead to various urinary issues. There are various treatment options available to treat BPH, including:
The treatment options for BPH can be broadly categorized into the following:
- Lifestyle Changes: Making certain lifestyle changes can help in alleviating BPH symptoms such as avoiding high caffeine intake, reducing alcohol intake, avoiding fluids immediately before going to bed, pelvic exercises etc.
- Medications: There are various medicines that can be used to manage BPH symptoms. These include:
- Alpha-Blockers: Alpha-blockers relax the muscles in the prostate and bladder which improve the urine flow. Examples include tamsulosin, alfuzosin, and terazosin.
- 5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitors: These drugs help shrink the prostate gland over time by reducing the production of a hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Examples include finasteride and dutasteride.
- Combination Therapy: In some cases, a combination of alpha-blockers and 5-alpha reductase inhibitors may be used for better symptom control.
- Phosphodiesterase-5 Inhibitors: Medications like tadalafil can be used to treat both BPH and erectile dysfunction.
- Minimally Invasive Procedures: There are various minimally invasive procedures available for patients with mild to severe symptoms and who are not responding to conservative medications. These include:
- Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP): Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) is a minimally invasive procedure performed to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). This procedure involves the removal of excess developed prostate tissue that are creating urinary issues like urinary obstruction, frequent urination etc. This procedure is performed under general anesthesia and a resectoscope is inserted through the urethra, allowing the surgeon to visualize and remove the obstructive prostate tissue. TURP is a common method used to treat BPH. This treatment can help reduce the symptoms. But, just like any operation, TURP can have some risks and problems. So, it's important to talk to your doctor (urologist) before undergoing the procedure.
- Transurethral Incision of the Prostate (TUIP): Transurethral Incision of the Prostate (TUIP) is also a minimally invasive procedure to treat BPH. During the procedure, small incisions are made in the prostate and the bladder neck to relieve the pressure on the urethra and improve urine flow. This procedure is performed under general anesthesia and offers a quicker recovery as compared to TURP. TUIP is usually a preferred option for the patients who suffer from the mild symptoms of BPH. However, it is not effective in severe cases of BPH.
- Laser Therapy: Laser surgery for BPH, or laser prostate gland surgery, is a minimally invasive procedure performed to treat BPH. This surgery is performed to remove the excess tissues from the prostate gland through laser heat. Different types of laser surgeries, like HoLEP or GreenLight, can be used. Laser surgery is an effective option because it offers short hospital stay, fast recovery, and less bleeding compared to that caused in traditional surgery. It's a good choice for people with mild to severe BPH symptoms who want a less invasive surgery. But like any surgical treatment, laser surgery also accompanies risks and problems. So, it's important to talk to your urologist about the risks and complications associated with the procedure.
- Traditional Surgery Intervention: Traditional surgery intervention for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) involves open surgical procedures to remove the enlarged prostate gland. One such procedure is called "Open Prostatectomy." During an open prostatectomy, a large incision is made in the lower abdomen to access and remove the excess prostate tissue that is causing urinary obstruction. This surgery is typically reserved for patients with very large prostates or when other treatments have not been effective. Open prostatectomy requires a longer hospital stay and a longer recovery period compared to less invasive procedures. While it is effective in relieving urinary symptoms, it carries a higher risk of complications due to its invasiveness. It's important for patients to discuss the potential benefits and risks of traditional surgical intervention with their urologist to make an informed decision about the most appropriate treatment option for their specific condition.
When to Seek Treatment for BPH?
While BPH is a common condition, it is important to recognize when it is time to seek treatment. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of BPH is crucial for early detection and timely management. Here are some symptoms that indicate the need for BPH treatment:
- Frequent Urination: One of the most noticeable symptoms of BPH is the need to urinate more frequently, especially at night. This condition, known as nocturia, can disrupt sleep patterns and affect overall quality of life.
- Urgency and Difficulty in Initiating Urination: BPH can lead to a sense of urgency to urinate, often accompanied by difficulty in starting the urine flow. This can cause frustration and discomfort, as well as a feeling of incomplete bladder emptying.
- Weak Urine Stream: Men with BPH may experience a weakened urine stream, which can make urination a longer and more laborious process. The reduced force of the stream can also contribute to incomplete bladder emptying.
- Dribbling at the end of Urination: Another common symptom of BPH is dribbling of urine at the end of urination. This occurs due to the narrowing of the urethra, which can cause urine to accumulate and leak out after finishing urination.
- Straining during Urination: As the prostate gland enlarges, it can obstruct the flow of urine through the urethra, resulting in the need to strain during urination. This strain can be both physically and emotionally taxing.
- Blood in Urine or Semen: While less common, BPH can sometimes cause blood to appear in the urine or semen. If you notice any blood, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.
- Bladder Infections: BPH can increase the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) and bladder infections. Symptoms of a bladder infection may include pain or a burning sensation during urination, frequent urination, and cloudy or bloody urine.
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Conclusion
While BPH itself is not life-threatening, leaving it untreated can have significant consequences. The risks and complications associated with untreated BPH, such as urinary tract infections, acute urinary retention, bladder stones, kidney damage, and reduced quality of life, emphasize the importance of seeking medical attention for this condition. If you are experiencing symptoms of BPH, consult with a healthcare professional who can provide appropriate treatment options to manage your condition effectively and minimize the risks involved. Remember, early intervention is key to maintaining a healthy and fulfilling life.
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