Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) literally means enlargement of the prostate gland.
The prostate is a male gland that produces prostatic fluid, which protects sperm and aids in fertilization. It is located below the bladder, in front of the rectum, and surrounds the urethra. When healthy, it is about the size of a walnut. However, with age—especially after 50 years—most men experience prostate enlargement. As it grows, it compresses the urethra, leading to benign prostatic hyperplasia.
As the prostate enlarges, it presses on the lower urinary tract, partially or completely obstructing the flow of urine.
Causes
The majority of urinary infections are caused by the bacterium E. coli (Escherichia coli).
Other contributing factors include:
- Sexual activity: Delaying urination after intercourse, use of spermicides, and diaphragms (which contain spermicides) increase the risk of urinary infections.
- Hormonal factors after menopause and during pregnancy.
- Urinary tract abnormalities.
- Urinary tract obstruction: Caused by bladder stones, benign prostatic hyperplasia, etc.
- Prolonged catheter use: Catheters allow bacteria to enter through the urethra and should be used only when strictly necessary.
- Structural abnormalities of the bladder wall: Often associated with chronic cystitis.
- Weakened immune system: Conditions such as diabetes, cancer treatments, or HIV increase susceptibility to infections.
- Drug-induced cystitis: Certain medications, such as ifosfamide and cyclophosphamide (used in chemotherapy), can inflame the bladder.
Symptoms
Symptoms are progressive and worsen as the prostate enlarges. Common symptoms include:
- Urgency and increased frequency of urination
- Cloudy, strong-smelling urine
- Burning sensation during urination
- Abdominal pain and/or pressure
- Occasional hematuria (blood in the urine)
- Occasional fever
- Occasional nausea and vomiting
Treatment
The main treatment for urinary infections associated with BPH is antibiotics. In many cases, a urine culture (uroculture) is required to identify the causative organism and determine the most appropriate antibiotic.
- Drink plenty of water and urinate frequently: This helps flush out the infection.
- Chronic bladder conditions may require further anatomical and pathological evaluation, with treatment tailored to the underlying cause.
In cases where urinary obstruction due to BPH is significant, additional medical or surgical treatments may be necessary to relieve symptoms and restore normal urine flow.