What to Do about Enlarged Prostate

Researchers have yet to determine the precise cause of enlarged prostates. This condition, very common in males over age 50, can produce discomfort, embarrassing symptoms, and in some cases can be a precursor or indicator of prostate cancer. While enlarged prostate, or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) may not lead to anything more serious, it's important to consult with your physician and/or urologist and to closely monitor symptoms in order to make sure treatment is adequate and enlarged prostate medication, if any, is working properly.

Enlarged Prostate Causes

As previously mentioned, the actual cause of enlarged prostate is not known. However, many researchers believe that increased secretion of dyhydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone associated with prostate growth, may be related. Research is continuing into the origin, causes, and mechanisms of increased DHT levels. Until more is known, however, there are several things you can do to promote good prostate health and maintain awareness of changes in your condition.

Regular Exams and Tests

If you are experiencing the symptoms of enlarged prostate, including reduced or intermittent urinary flow, difficulty in urination, blood in the urine, or other symptoms, you should immediately consult your doctor. Often, the first test will be a DRE, or digital rectal examination, in which your doctor will probe the prostate through the rectal wall to determine its shape, consistency, and size. Regular blood tests that include the PSA (prostate specific antigen) screening are also important. Elevated levels of PSA can—but do not always—indicate an enlarged prostate: cause for further testing and monitoring. Such "early warnings" can be an important source of information to help your doctor prescribe proper medication for your enlarged prostate, or even surgical treatment, if that proves necessary.

Medication Options

Two primary medication regimes exist for treating enlarged prostate. The first involves a class of drugs called alpha reductase inhibitors. These drugs work by reducing the body's ability to produce dyhydrotestosterone (DHT), since elevated levels of this hormone are thought to be a possible cause of enlarged prostates. A second class of drugs, alpha blockers, work by relaxing the smooth muscle tissue of the bladder outlet and prostate, allowing more ease in urination. Both types of drugs may cause temporary side effects. Your physician will be able to advise you of the best method of treatment, after taking into consideration your general health and other risk factors. If your BPH is not severe, medication may not even be indicated.