Prostatic hypertrophy: what is it and why is it dangerous?

• Prostatic hypertrophy is an extremely common pathology among mature men.
• Medical statistics show that approximately 40% of people who have crossed the 60-year mark receive this diagnosis.
• But, fortunately, this pathology is relatively easy to treat.

Prostate hypertrophy - what is it?

Before we begin to consider the causes, symptoms and features of treatment, it is necessary to understand what kind of disease this is - prostate hypertrophy. And the first thing you need to understand is what the prostate is.

The prostate is a small cone-shaped organ located between the bladder and rectum. Throughout a man's life, his prostate gland regularly increases in size: first in the womb, and then during puberty.

Prostate

In an adult, the average dimensions of this organ are as follows: 3 by 3 by 2 centimeters. However, it is considered normal when the prostate has grown to: 4.5 by 4 by 2.3 centimeters. Excess is already considered a pathology.

To understand even better what prostatic hypertrophy is, it is necessary to consider what this organ is needed for. A healthy prostate gland has three main functions. The first is to ensure normal sexual intercourse and intense ejaculation. The second is the prevention of infections that can lead to infertility. The third is sperm nutrition.

Causes

The most popular cause of the disease, which is accepted by most of the medical community, is the response of the prostate gland to female sex hormones.

The fact is that when a male fetus is in the mother’s womb, the organ in question is formed from the tissues of the dissecting Müllerian ducts. In girls, these, in turn, form the uterus.

When a man enters adulthood (45-50 years), his testosterone levels decrease significantly and estrogen concentration increases. This provokes disturbances in the functioning of the prostate gland.

According to another theory, the development of the pathology in question is influenced by a person’s sexual activity in the past. In particular, this opinion is very widespread among people who do not have a medical education. However, in the relevant professional environment, this hypothesis was not confirmed and was rejected due to its inconsistency.

Benign prostatic hypertrophy can be either an independent disease or the result of other disorders in the body. For example, it develops with various pathologies of the genitourinary system.

General symptoms

At the initial stage, this pathology does not cause serious discomfort. Therefore, most often it is diagnosed accidentally during examination for the presence of other ailments: prostate cancer, prostatitis or sexually transmitted diseases.

But at the initial stage, treatment of prostate hypertrophy is much simpler, and therefore cheaper. Therefore, if appropriate, even very mild symptoms are detected, it is strongly recommended to undergo an examination.

Prostate hypertrophy symptoms are as follows:

• general weakness, accompanied by irritation and apathy;
• frequent urge to empty the bladder;
• inability to achieve complete satisfaction from urination;
• development of infectious diseases of the genitourinary system;
• other difficulties with urine output.

Libido also decreases significantly. Despite the fact that in adulthood it is relatively weak, the corresponding changes are still noticeable. Yes, the listed symptoms are also typical for many other diseases of the genitourinary system. However, each of them is a reason to contact a doctor.

Stages of pathology development

When the disease first develops, it is quite simple to cure it. Therefore, the initial stage is called reversible.

The signs of the disease are very mild, but with due attention it is still possible to notice them.

Firstly, the patient has slight difficulties with bowel movements. This process becomes longer, while the pressure of the jet weakens slightly. The number of visits to the toilet increases. Some people with a slightly larger than normal prostate experience discomfort in the lower abdomen and/or perineum.

At the second stage, benign prostatic hypertrophy makes itself felt more clearly. During this process, various kinds of complications may already appear, which include, for example, a decrease in the thickness of the walls of the bladder, which is why they contract poorly.

Against this background, there is a problem with complete emptying.
After urinating, the patient does not feel satisfied, and soon he again experiences a strong desire to visit the toilet. The resulting problems provoke other pathologies. In particular, kidney function is impaired.

Due to stagnation of urine, stones can form in them. Taken together, all this leads to the appearance of severe pain syndromes, which worsen when urinating.

In the absence of proper treatment, symptoms constantly increase. Over time, the patient almost loses the ability to go to the toilet and gets rid of the fluid accumulated in the bladder, literally drop by drop. The pain increases to the point where it becomes difficult to tolerate.

In severely advanced cases, intoxication occurs, which causes disruptions in many body systems. Prostate hypertrophy is a pathology that can also lead to bladder rupture, although this is recorded relatively rarely.

The rapid development of pathology is influenced not only by the individual characteristics of the body, but also by external factors. In particular, it is aggravated by alcohol consumption, hypothermia, infectious diseases, stress and constipation.

Treatment

It is necessary to determine the causes of the pathology and the extent of its damage.

Treatment of prostate hypertrophy, as a rule, involves complex treatment. The first of them is conservative and is used mainly in the initial stages of the disease. Veiny prostatic hypertrophy treatment involves medications, as well as physiological procedures.

The patient is prescribed special baths with special herbs, and a prostate massage is performed. This normalizes hormonal levels and stimulates blood circulation, which stops the growth of the organ.

When conservative treatment is impossible due to severe organ hypertrophy, the only way to correct the pathology is surgery.

A technique currently used is to remove excess prostate tissue through the urethra. But its use is possible only if there are no serious kidney problems. The same method is sometimes used in the initial stages of prostate hypertrophy, if the classical method does not give satisfactory results.

The prognosis for treatment of hypertrophy is positive. However, any older man should try to prevent the development of this pathology. In particular, it is recommended to undergo regular medical examinations. Even if a pathology is identified during the process, it can be easily eliminated.

Video on the topic

Urologist about common prostate diseases and methods of their treatment:

Source: https://prostata.guru/prostata/adenoma-prostaty/gipertrofiya.html

Main characteristics, symptoms and treatments for prostate hypertrophy

The prostate gland performs a number of functions in the male body. It produces prostate secretion, which is part of sperm. It prevents infection from entering the bladder and kidneys. Prostate hypertrophy is an enlargement of the prostate gland, leading to disruption of the functioning of the genitourinary system.

What is prostatic hypertrophy and why does it occur?

An enlarged organ can be either a separate disease or a consequence of another disease.

Enlarged prostate

Reasons for the development of the problem:

1. hormonal imbalance;
2. prostatitis;
3. inflammatory process of the urinary system;
4. sedentary lifestyle;
5. sexually transmitted infections;
6. neoplasms;
7. regular hypothermia;
8. unevenness of sexual contacts;
9. eating disorder;
10. genetic predisposition;
11. atherosclerosis;
12. violation of metabolic processes;
13. blood thickening.

By the time the disease develops, many provoking factors accumulate. This common diagnosis occurs in men of the older age group. 4 out of 10 representatives of the stronger sex over 60 years old have signs of this problem.

Prostate hypertrophy is common among older men

Signs of pathology

The first messengers are associated with the location of the gland. It is located below the bladder, directly next to the urethra. With benign hypertrophy, excessive pressure occurs on these organs and their activity is disrupted.

Symptoms:

1. frequent urge to urinate;
2. outflow of urine in a thin stream;
3. feeling of partial emptying of the bladder;
4. discomfort in the lower abdomen;
5. pain above the pubis;
6. discomfort in the perineal area;
7. problems with urination;
8. traces of blood in the urine;
9. soreness in the groin area;
10. general deterioration of condition;
11. impaired renal function;
12. sand and stones in the bladder.

Manifestations develop gradually. In advanced cases, a secondary infection occurs and it becomes impossible to pass urine naturally. This stage requires hospitalization.

What to do if you notice signs of prostate enlargement?

If you notice any changes, you should contact a urologist. The doctor will take an anamnesis, palpate through the anus and prescribe additional examinations.

If you notice signs of prostate enlargement, consult a urologist immediately!

Studies to confirm the diagnosis:

• general blood analysis;
• Analysis of urine;
• Ultrasound;
• X-ray of the pelvic organs;
• uroflowmetry;
• TRUS;
• determination of prostate-specific antigen in the blood;
• tissue biopsy.

Sometimes the results of the first four indicators are enough for a specialist. The doctor tries to collect as much data as possible before treating the patient. It is advisable to do uroflowmetry.

With this procedure, the speed of urine movement is determined. The technique is painless and has no contraindications. To do the research, just urinate into a special device.

Afterwards, the computer will compare the patient’s indicators with the acceptable ones and display the result.

Transrectal ultrasound of the gland has great information value: it reflects the exact size of the organ, the structure and density of the tissue, and the presence of tumors. The sensor is inserted into the rectum and an image is obtained on the monitor screen. To obtain reliable results, the patient must empty his bowels and fill his bladder before the examination.

Types of treatment

Conservative or surgical measures are used. The first include treatment of prostate hypertrophy with tablets and massage. Massage improves microcirculation and is performed by a medical professional. Medicines are used in combination.

A drug to improve urine flow and drugs aimed at shrinking the prostate gland must be prescribed. Symptomatic treatment is also used, the purpose of which is to relieve pain and swelling. If infection is present, antibiotic therapy is administered.

At the same time, medications are being taken to boost immunity and generally strengthen the body.

Both conservative and surgical measures are used to treat prostate hypertrophy.

For a favorable prognosis of conservative treatment, the patient is recommended to:

• follow a special diet;
• drink the required amount of water;
• to refuse from bad habits;
• fight chronic diseases;
• urinate at the first urge;
• avoid hypothermia;
• prevent the entry of new infections;
• adhere to a healthy lifestyle;
• Avoid overheating in the sun.

By following these rules, the load on the kidneys and the entire body is reduced. The special role of diet is clear. If you have problems with this organ, you need a sufficient amount of vitamins A, C and E. Therefore, you need to include sources of these elements in your daily diet. These can be tomatoes, citrus fruits, vegetable oils, strawberries, cabbage, spinach.

For normal functioning of the prostate, the required amount of zinc must be supplied. To do this, you need to eat seafood, pumpkin seeds, root vegetables, beans, nuts, and peas. Glutamic acid helps reduce the size of this organ.

It is found in lentils, corn and nuts. Soy products have a beneficial effect due to the isoflavones they contain. Eating eggs is recommended as lecithin is beneficial for the prostate.

Proper nutrition will not solve the underlying problem, but it will help the body prevent the progression of the disease.

For successful conservative treatment, stick to proper nutrition!

Surgical treatment is indicated if it is impossible to get rid of the problem using conservative methods. The operation is carried out using several methods. If the functioning of the kidneys is not impaired, then the manipulation is carried out through the urethra.

Using an endoscope, it is possible to avoid superficial tissue dissections. This transurethral resection of the prostate is a less traumatic method. After this manipulation, the man quickly recovers and soon returns to his normal lifestyle.

The use of laser is the most popular method of surgery.

If surgical intervention through the urethra is not recommended, then a classic operation is performed. During the intervention, an incision is made in the lower abdomen and the prostate gland is operated on.

Important to remember.

1. Despite the predominance of mature men among patients, the disease manifests itself at any age.
2. The presence of a disease does not exclude the presence of other diseases with a similar clinical picture.
3. The consequence of advanced disease is impaired potency.

Complications of the disease

If treatment is not started in a timely manner, progression of the disease is inevitable. Over time, internal organs such as the bladder and kidneys become involved in the process. The patient's quality of life decreases.

A man loses his ability to work, is constantly distracted from work due to the urge to go to the toilet, experiences pain in the affected area, feels general weakness, and has problems in his sex life. Over time, sexual intercourse becomes impossible.

The disease leads to infertility. The situation is complicated by apathy and stress.

The prognosis for treatment of prostatic hypertrophy is good when you consult a urologist at the initial stage of the disease.

Originally posted 2017-03-15 19:02:27.

Source: https://tutux.ru/prostata/simptomy-lechenie-gipertrofii-prostaty/

Prostatic hypertrophy: what is it, what are the symptoms?

Men don't tend to complain about trifles. Therefore, many people find out about the diagnosis of prostatic hypertrophy too late. What it is? What can cause this pathology and how to avoid complications. Is it possible to recognize the onset in the early stages, and what methods of treating prostate hypertrophy are used in modern medicine?

Prostatic hypertrophy is a benign growth of prostate tissue. Depending on the stage of the disease, the organ increases in size to 50-60 cm3. This diagnosis has another name - BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia), or prostate adenoma. This disease is quite common among older men.

The prostate plays an important role in men's health. Firstly, it wraps around the urethra and thereby regulates the process of urination. Secondly, the prostate is involved in the formation of sperm. Therefore, it is extremely undesirable to ignore problems affecting the genitourinary system.

How can prostate hypertrophy be dangerous?

 Benign enlargement of prostate tissue affects neighboring organs, disrupting their functions. First of all, this affects the process of urine outflow.

An enlarged prostate can also lead to various genitourinary diseases. Because the bladder is not completely emptied, residual urine becomes a breeding ground for infections and bacteria. For a man, this is fraught with cystitis, pyelonephritis, and even kidney failure.

What else threatens prostate hypertrophy? Lumps in the prostate impede the free outflow of prostatic secretions, which are part of sperm. Without paying due attention to this problem, a man can very quickly lose interest in his sexual life and become infertile. The most dangerous outcome of this pathology is the appearance of cancer cells.

Considering the seriousness of the disease, every man should understand that keeping silent about such problems is extremely undesirable.

How to recognize the onset of the disease

Prostate hypertrophy is divided into three stages:

• Stage 1. The size of the prostate is increased to 35-40 cm3. Symptoms at the initial stage are almost invisible. A man may feel an increased urge to urinate, especially at night. The stream of urine becomes sluggish.
• Stage 2. The size of the gland reaches 40-50 cm3. At this stage, pain symptoms during urination, erection, and ejaculation are already clearly visible. More and more often you feel the urge to urinate, during which you have to strain and literally “squeeze out” the stream in small portions.
• Stage 3. An admixture of blood or pus appears in the urine and semen. It becomes impossible to completely empty the bladder. Acute pain is felt in the genital area, back, legs. Increased body temperature, nausea. In an advanced stage, the size of the prostate can exceed 60 cm3. The third stage, as a rule, requires urgent surgical intervention.

There are two types of enlarged prostate tissue:

• Diffuse. In this case, the volume of the prostate increases evenly.
• Nodular – in some places of the prostate dense nodules form, the number and size of which gradually increases.

Against the background of all these symptoms, the sexual sphere also suffers. The man feels a noticeable decrease in potency. In some cases, this is dictated by constant pain and discomfort.

But there are cases that the very fact that a man is sick triggers a negative psychological reaction. As a result, emotional stress leads to problems with potency.

It is important to know. If you periodically take a test for PSA levels in the blood, then prostate hyperplasia can be detected at the earliest stages. This is especially true for men over 45 years of age. After all, it is at this age that many people begin to have problems with the prostate gland.

Causes of prostate enlargement

The question rightly arises: why does the prostate enlarge?

Scientists have still not been able to find out the true cause of this disease. But there is very convincing evidence that hormonal changes and hereditary factors play an important role in this.

There is some interesting evidence to support the idea that prostate enlargement is caused by imbalanced hormones. Men who engage in bodybuilding and use anabolic steroids are much more likely to suffer from prostate hypertrophy.

The remaining reasons that doctors talk about are rather predisposing factors:

• Smoking.
• Alcohol abuse.
• Too frequent and promiscuous sexual intercourse.
• Insufficient sexual activity.
• Sedentary lifestyle.
• Unhealthy eating.
• Overweight.
• Hypothermia.

How is the treatment carried out?

Before treatment is prescribed, a man needs to be prepared for the fact that he will have to undergo many studies, take several tests and even undergo a digital rectal diagnosis.

All this is done in order to determine at what stage the disease is, what size the prostate is, and how quickly prostatic hypertrophy develops. If necessary, a biopsy is also performed in order to exclude the malignant nature of hyperplasia. The data obtained will allow you to choose the right course of treatment.

How is prostate hypertrophy treated?

• Alpha adrenergic blockers. These drugs allow you to relax the muscle fibers of the urinary system and thereby significantly alleviate the patient’s condition.
• 5-alpha reductase inhibitors. The enzymes contained in these drugs help the body produce the necessary hormones. Thanks to this, it is possible to stop the growth of the prostate.

Prostate hypertrophy takes a long time to treat – about a year, or even more. In severe cases, patients may require lifelong maintenance therapy.

When conservative treatment does not produce results, it would be advisable to perform surgery. The doctor chooses the surgical intervention depending on the severity of the condition. This can be transurethral resection, laser removal of the prostate, or abdominal surgery. There is no need to be afraid of this. If you trust doctors with extensive experience, then everything will go smoothly and without complications.

To prevent prostate hypertrophy, a man needs to protect his health from bad habits from a young age. Despite your busy schedule, find time for active exercises and, most importantly, be “friends” with the urologist.

Source: http://proprostatu.ru/zabolevaniia/gipertrofiya-predstatelnoj-zhelezy-chto-eto-takoe.html

Prostatic hypertrophy - what is it?

Hypertrophy in the prostate gland is caused by excessive growth of organ tissue. The disease is often called prostate adenoma or hyperplasia. The symptoms of this pathology are often mild and are detected when the organ has greatly increased in size and puts pressure on the bladder.

This disease occurs in 60% of men over 50 years of age. How to identify pathology and what the lack of treatment will lead to, we will consider in the article.

Meaning of prostate

The prostate is the male reproductive gland. It takes part in the emergence of sexual arousal, protecting the genital organs from infections and maintaining sperm activity.

Causes

Pathology appears due to hormonal imbalance. In patients with prostate hypertrophy, an excess of female sex hormones is detected, which leads to the growth of the gland.

Other factors, including stress, irregular sex life, bad habits, do not cause prostate hypertrophy, but affect the general well-being of the patient, worsening blood circulation in the pelvic area.

Also, some doctors consider the causes of hypertrophy to be inflammation of the genitourinary system, sedentary work, sexually transmitted diseases, heredity, metabolic disorders, a tendency to form blood clots, and disruption of the gastrointestinal tract.

Risk group

The disease affects men over 50 years of age, since the level of testosterone in the blood decreases during the aging process.

Young men can get sick due to taking anabolic steroids and other hormonal drugs.

Symptoms

The following signs indicate the disease:

• burning;
• frequent and painful urination;
• constant feeling of bladder fullness;
• discomfort in the pubic area;
• soreness near the perineum;
• blood in urine;
• abnormalities in kidney function.

Important. The appearance of any of these symptoms may indicate prostate hypertrophy.

Development of the disease

Hypertrophy in the prostate zone goes through 3 stages of development:

1. The first stage is characterized by slight deviations in the functions of the prostate and bladder. The symptoms that appear at this stage are similar to cystitis. The patient urinates more frequently, and a burning sensation and itching appears in the lower abdomen.
2. At the second stage, complications appear. At this time, the patient’s bladder walls become thinner, and the functioning of the organ deteriorates. It feels like he hasn't emptied himself enough. This affects the functioning of the kidneys, sand and stones appear in them. There is pain when urinating.
3. At stage 3, pain becomes more intense, and health deteriorates. Subsequently, renal failure develops, and the pathology enters the chronic phase. The bladder can empty involuntarily, urine begins to linger in the body, which causes severe poisoning. If you do not consult a doctor in a timely manner, a man is not able to empty himself. They can only help him in a clinic where a catheter will be installed. There is a risk that the bladder will burst in such a situation.

We also recommend viewing: What consequences does ovarian rupture entail?

In the initial stages of the disease, symptoms are not pronounced. They begin to worry when the prostate becomes very enlarged, accompanied by compression of the urethra. This process is slow. At first, the man notices fatigue, he develops short temper and excessive aggression. His performance decreases and he constantly feels drowsy.

Gradually, the urge to urinate becomes more frequent, and after emptying the bladder, the feeling of fullness does not disappear. Urinary retention occurs, which leads to impaired kidney function. Since waste products are retained in the body through urine, the body is poisoned.

In this case, the prostate ceases to perform a protective function, as a result, the infection spreads to the bladder and kidneys, causing renal failure. At this stage, urine is released in the form of drops or does not come out at all. This condition requires immediate consultation with a doctor to prevent rupture of the bladder.

Diagnostics

Having discovered the first signs of prostatic hypertrophy, only a doctor can determine exactly what it is. Prostate hypertrophy leads to the development of many complications. This can be prevented with early diagnosis of the disease.

First of all, the man undergoes a digital examination of the rectum. The doctor determines the size and structure of the prostate.

A blood test shows the condition of the kidneys, and laboratory tests often reveal bacterial pathogens in the urine.

The main instrumental diagnostic method is transrectal ultrasound TRUS. This tool allows you to study the size of the prostate gland and identify possible tumors. Cystoscopy is also informative. The peculiarity of this method is that it allows you to determine the condition of the bladder.

Treatment

Treatment of symptoms of prostatic hypertrophy must be carried out with medication or surgery. Treatment of prostate adenoma begins as early as possible.

Drug therapy

Drug treatment will only help in the initial stages, when the bladder has completely emptied. The following medications are recommended to the patient:

• herbal medicines;
• medications to relax the prostate ducts and facilitate urination;
• hormonal agents that help reduce the size of the prostate gland

If the disease is accompanied by a bacterial infection, the patient is prescribed antibiotics. Painkillers and herbal medicines can alleviate his condition.

Important. In each case, treatment is prescribed by a doctor, based on the characteristics of the course of the disease, the patient’s age, and the general condition of the patient.

If medications do not help, or blood is found in the urine, only surgery will help. This is the only option also for kidney damage and lack of urination caused by compression of the urethra by the prostate. It is also necessary when stones or sand are detected in the bladder, as well as when the disease enters the chronic stage.

Traditional methods

Traditional medicine is also used to treat prostate hypertrophy. Such treatment should be supervised by a doctor who will monitor the patient’s condition. Tinctures of horsetail, ginseng, and nettle have a healing effect on prostate tissue. They help reduce the size of the prostate. If the disease occurs with pain, make a tincture of thuja or sleep herb.

The patient can make a decoction of licorice root, which is dried and then finely chopped. The dry mixture will require 1 tbsp. spoon for 1/2 liter of water. The product is boiled for 10 minutes, then infused. It can be consumed after it has cooled.

Cumin can relieve the symptoms of hypertrophy. From 1 tbsp. l. means make a decoction, or drink it with tea.

Important. The patient is recommended to place tampons with sea buckthorn and fir oil into the rectum. After each bowel movement, it is replaced.

Surgical treatment

When prostate tissue grows, the most effective method is surgery. The prostate is removed through the urethra (transurethral resection) if the disease has not yet affected the kidneys.

If the pathology has progressed to later stages, the patient undergoes a retropubic or transvesical adenomectomy. In general, in the later stages of pathology development, the neoplasm is more often removed using a laser.

Contraindication

In some cases, surgery to remove the prostate is not recommended. These conditions include:

• inflammation in the genitourinary system;
• acute viral diseases;
• chronic heart disease;
• diabetes;
• thyroid dysfunction;
• age over 70 years;
• blood clotting disorder;
• taking medications to prevent blood clots.

After surgery, the patient may experience infection of the genitourinary system. Sometimes surgery causes sperm to enter the bladder. Blood is observed in semen and urine for several days.

However, even surgery does not guarantee a 100% recovery.

Prevention measures

You can prevent the occurrence of prostate hypertrophy by following certain rules. In particular, the patient is not recommended to drink alcoholic beverages. It is necessary to quit smoking and lead a healthy lifestyle. Physical exercise will help you cope with the disease.

It is not recommended for a man to overcool and be in the sun.

If the pathology is detected at the initial stage, the patient must follow a diet. Eliminate highly fatty, spicy, hot and fried foods from your diet. A man's health is negatively affected by the consumption of canned food, coffee and salty foods.

This diet will help reduce pressure on the ducts, which will slow down tissue proliferation. The urge to urinate must be satisfied as early as possible.

Complications of prostate hypertrophy

If you do not pay enough attention to the treatment of prostate hypertrophy, the disease will lead to a lot of complications.

In particular, urination will become impossible without a special urinal, and the patient will have to constantly experience pain. All this reduces a man's ability to conceive.

Also, in the absence of proper treatment, the patient experiences:

• inflammation of the urinary tract;
• kidney diseases;
• renal failure;
• infertility;
• urolithiasis disease;
• prostate cancer;
• impotence.

Conclusion

To detect the disease in the early stages, it is necessary to undergo annual preventive examinations and, if an adenoma is detected, undergo comprehensive treatment. At this stage, the disease is easier to treat, and the growth of prostate tissue occurs slowly. A full life, if pathology is detected in an advanced state, is practically impossible, and relapse is also possible.

Source: https://myzhelezy.ru/smeshannoj-sekretsii/polovye/gipertrofiya-predstatelnoj-zhelezy.html

What is prostate hypertrophy, what does it mean and how to treat it?

What is prostate hypertrophy and how to treat it? Prostatic hypertrophy is a disease that affects older men. Often this is a benign enlargement of the prostate, but the trouble is that it gives rise to many other serious diseases.

The role of the prostate gland in the male body is quite large. This organ, similar in size and shape to a chestnut, is responsible for the production of the secretion that makes up sperm. That is, a man’s sexual function depends on the performance of the prostate.

In addition, the sphincters located in the gland protect the bladder and nearby organs from the penetration of viruses and bacteria. Therefore, with various types of dysfunction, including prostate hypertrophy, its protective functions are suppressed, resulting in a risk of complications.

What else is this pathology characterized by?

Stages of hypertrophy development

To answer the question of what it is, you need to consider how and where the hypertrophy of the main male gland begins. It is most convenient to do this based on the stage of development of the disease.

In a specific case, it is customary to distinguish three stages:

• Prostate enlargement is minor. This has little effect on the tone of the bladder muscles, so that urine is emptied in full. The only thing you may notice at this stage is a slight increase in the urge to urinate at night. In general, the developing disease does not cause significant discomfort.
• Already at the second stage, hypertrophy provokes a gradual weakening of the muscle tone of the bladder, as a result of which the latter is not completely emptied. After each act of urination, a small amount of urine remains, which does not disappear anywhere. Thus, going to the toilet does not solve the problem, and the man is constantly haunted by the urge.

• The third stage of prostate hypertrophy is the last and most dangerous. The increasing size of the organ continues to adversely affect the functions of the muscles of the urethral bladder. As a result, muscle tissue atrophies and turns into connective tissue. Essentially, the bladder becomes a urine collection bag. However, the development of the pathological process does not stop there - it spreads to the kidneys. If the disease is not treated, it can result in kidney failure and death.

You can avoid a disastrous outcome if you seek help from a doctor in a timely manner.

Modern methods for diagnosing prostate diseases, such as ultrasound and transrectal ultrasound, make it possible to detect the disease at the earliest stages of its development. All this makes it possible to eliminate the disease in a conservative way, without the use of surgical operations. The main thing is to understand in time that something is wrong with your health.

Symptoms and complications

Due to the anatomical features of the structure of the male genitourinary system, in particular the close location of the prostate and urethral bladder, all problems with the gland in one way or another affect the process of urination.

Thanks to this, the following symptoms of the disease in question can be identified:

• increased number of urges at night;
• a constant feeling of incomplete emptying of the bladder;
• discomfort in the lower back or just above the pubis;
• passing urine in a weak stream;
• general lethargy and lack of strength.

If any of the above abnormalities are present, you should seek help from a doctor as soon as possible. Treatment will most likely be required.

In the process of further development, prostatic hypertrophy can develop into serious abnormalities affecting other organs. The urethral bladder always bears the brunt.

But in addition to the above-mentioned urinary retention, cystitis and even pyelonephritis can occur due to the penetration of bacteria. Their symptoms also include problems urinating and severe pain in the pelvic area. This once again confirms the fact that prostatic hypertrophy requires treatment.

Treatment options

When determining a treatment plan, it is necessary to take into account many factors, including the cause of the enlarged gland, the stage of the disease, and the presence of complications. Ultimately, it is determined which treatment, conservative or surgical, will be more beneficial. The conservative method of therapy involves taking special medications in the form of tablets or injections.

Usually the patient is prescribed a course of treatment with drugs that shrink the gland and cause muscle contractions of the bladder. They are often advised to take antibiotics in addition. If the patient is experiencing constant pain, the doctor may prescribe painkillers.

It should be noted that such treatment makes sense only if prostatic hypertrophy has not had time to greatly affect the body.

You should always remember that surgery is a last resort. In order not to bring the matter to a head, you can and even need to systematically visit a urologist for preventive purposes.

Source: https://prostate.propto.ru/article/chto-takoe-gipertrofiya-prostaty-chem-ona-grozit-i-kak-lechit

What is prostatic hypertrophy: symptoms and treatment methods

Taking care of men's health is a very important aspect, because the ability to bear children and a normal sex life depend on it. However, there are many diseases of the reproductive system, which, in addition to problems with potency, undermine overall well-being. Among the most commonly diagnosed diseases is prostatic hypertrophy.

Features of the anatomical location of the prostate

Statistics indicate that about 15% of men after 40 years of age suffer from prostate hypertrophy, and after 60 years of age, over 45% of them consult a doctor for emergency treatment.

But the main danger is that turning to a doctor occurs only when the disease reaches an advanced stage and cannot be completely cured.

The only solution to the problem is timely diagnosis, which includes scheduled examinations by a urologist every 6 months.

The prostate gland is a small organ, shaped like a walnut, and plays an important role in the male urinary and reproductive system.

To the touch, the prostate is elastic, of medium density, and has a small size in normal condition.

The prostate gland is located tightly, one part is against the wall of the intestine, and the other side is adjacent to the bladder. The prostate performs 2 main functions:

• responsible for the production of male hormones and special secretions;
• differentiates between sperm release and urination.

Until the age of 18-21, the prostate gland grows. All changes after 20 years are not the norm, however, they are very common in case of hormonal imbalance. Such anomalies include prostatic hypertrophy.

What is prostatic hypertrophy?

It is important for every man to know the symptoms of prostate hypertrophy, in order to not only maintain the health of the male reproductive system, but also maintain the quality of life at a high level. Late diagnosis and lack of treatment of the prostate in 87% of cases lead to impotence.

Prostate diseases are associated with inflammatory processes or changes in the structure and size of the organ. Prostatic hypertrophy is a benign formation characterized by the proliferation of connective tissue. Such changes can be a consequence of several factors:

• intrauterine development disorders;
• changes in hormonal levels;
• advanced prostatitis;
• metastasis as a result of oncology.

Most often, hypertrophy is diagnosed in men over 60 years of age. This is due to hormonal changes associated with age. Female hormones begin to predominate in the body, which affect the growth of connective tissue in the prostate. As a result, in parallel with the aging of the male body, the prostate gland increases, but such changes in size are abnormal.

Causes of connective tissue proliferation

Prostate hypertrophy does not happen overnight; the formation of such a disease requires time and associated causes. Among the most common factors causing the development of gland hypertrophy:

• age-related changes;
• hormonal imbalances;
• inflammatory processes in the urinary system;
• a sedentary lifestyle often causes prostate hypertrophy;
• reduction of physical activity;
• sexually transmitted diseases;
• chaotic sex life, frequent changes of partners;
• hereditary factor;
• eating disorder;
• decreased rate of metabolic processes in the male body;
• increased blood density;
• sleep disturbance;
• neoplasms on the organ;
• even disorders of the gastrointestinal tract can lead to the development of hypertrophy.

These reasons can work both individually and in combination. The development of the disease can be predicted in only one way: by constantly visiting a urologist, who can determine even the slightest changes in the structure and structure of the prostate gland.

Symptoms of prostate disease

The growth of connective tissue in itself is not so scary, because most often retired men lead a quiet sex life, the lack of an erection does not bother them at all.

However, prostate hypertrophy simultaneously affects blood circulation in the pelvis, worsening and slowing it down.

Changes in connective tissue are often an independent disease, but they can also be a symptom of another, rapidly developing serious disease. A urologist will help you decide what it is and establish an accurate diagnosis.

The insidiousness of prostate hypertrophy lies in the fact that minor changes occur without manifestations; a man may not notice minor symptoms, citing fatigue or age somewhere. Changes in connective tissue that may attract special attention will manifest themselves in the following symptoms:

• general weakness;
• irritability;
• frequent urination or the urge to urinate;
• difficulty in urine flow;
• the bladder does not empty completely;
• when urinating, the stream is interrupted, the pressure is weak;
• pain in the lower abdomen, mainly in the pubic part;
• nagging pain in the lower back always accompanies prostate hypertrophy.

Due to malfunctions of the prostate gland, a man may develop the following diseases:

• cystitis;
• pyelonephritis;
• stones in the kidneys;
• inflammation of the urethra;
• stones in the prostate.

All these diseases do not form overnight, they progress over time, and can develop into kidney failure, especially if a man does not go to the doctor, but self-medicates.

Exacerbation of such pathologies, or their frequent manifestation, even after a full course of recovery, is a clear signal that the prostate needs to be examined.

Treatment will only be effective if it is timely.

How is developing disease diagnosed?

The patient can independently understand that the functions of the prostate gland are impaired when the symptoms are already very vivid. If you are attentive to your health, then after the appearance of discomfort or urination problems, you should consult a doctor immediately - these are signs of hypertrophy.

The urologist must conduct an examination that will show whether there are any, even minor, changes in the structure of the prostate. There are several types of organ diagnostics when computer technologies are used, but the most common are prostate ultrasound and MRI. No less necessary to make a diagnosis is an examination by a doctor who palpates the prostate gland rectally, determining the condition of the organ.

Many men are afraid of such an examination, so they put off visiting a doctor until the last moment; they go only after prostate hypertrophy has reached an advanced stage; the doctor sometimes cannot help not only with medication, but also with the help of surgery.

Prevention of prostate hypertrophy

There is no specific technique that would guarantee 100% that a man will not suffer from the growth of connective tissue in the prostate. However, following general advice and recommendations and visiting a urologist regularly will ensure control over men’s health. An examination by a doctor and regular tests will help you stay “on the horse” for a long time, be healthy and active.

The main aspect for maintaining health is regular visits to the doctor. Men over 45 years old need to visit a urologist once a year, and after 60 years old – once every six months.

If a representative of the stronger sex has hereditary factors, birth injuries or a predisposition to pathology, then after the slightest manifestation of symptoms, you should go to a urologist and be monitored once every 6-7 months.

A man must monitor his diet, for example, a diet for prostate adenoma excludes fried, salty foods, sleep and daily routine. Chaotic behavior in this matter affects general well-being and hormonal background, which leads to the fact that the prostate begins to suffer, reacting with protective properties - changes in its size and structure.

If the doctor finds that the prostate has increased even slightly in size, or its structure has changed, the urologist will prescribe a prostate massage and there is no need to be afraid of this.

If massage manipulations are performed by a specialist, the patient is relaxed and there are no inflammatory processes, then the procedure will not cause pain or discomfort, and the release of stagnant secretions will renew the functioning of the gland - which will be an undoubted benefit.

It is impossible to carry out this procedure on your own; it is the doctor who knows all the anatomical features, technology and algorithm for performing the massage.

Prostate treatment

Seeing a doctor is the best decision a man can make. For any symptoms of prostate hypertrophy, it is important to receive proper treatment. It is impossible to get rid of this disease on your own; it is useless to treat the symptoms; it is important to eliminate the cause.

The urologist will refer the patient for tests; urine and blood parameters will be important. A digital rectal examination of a man will give an accurate picture; it will allow you to understand what the consistency and structure of the prostate is. After which an ultrasound or TRUS examination, and in some cases magnetic resonance imaging, may be prescribed. A smear from the urethra must be taken.

Treatment can be drastic - surgery, or medication. In the early stages of the disease, drug therapy, massage and procedures prescribed by the doctor will help.

Only complex treatment allows you to get rid of the causes and eliminate hypertrophy completely.

If the stage of the disease is already advanced, or there is a suspicion of oncology, the doctor prescribes an operation, surgical intervention is performed, after which the patient undergoes rehabilitation for a short time and goes home healthy. After treatment is completed, it is important to monitor the prostate gland to avoid relapse or development of new disease.

It is important for any man that not only his general well-being is excellent, but also his potency is not upsetting. Only timely diagnosis of diseases of the male urinary and reproductive system can guarantee a complete recovery. The specialist you contact also plays an important role.

It is best to choose a good urologist and visit him regularly. The doctor will guide the patient, know his clinical picture, previous diseases - this will help, when the first symptoms appear, to determine the diagnosis and prescribe effective treatment. If you have been prescribed an MRI of the prostate, the following information will be useful: https://metod-diagnostiki.ru/polovye-organy/reproduktivnaya-sistema-muzhchin/mrt-prostaty/

Source: https://metod-diagnostiki.ru/polovye-organy/reproduktivnaya-sistema-muzhchin/gipertrofiya-predstatelnoy-zhelezy/