Who is at Risk for BPH ?
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), or prostate gland enlargement, is a common condition affecting men, particularly as they age. While BPH is not cancerous, it can significantly affect urinary health and quality of life. Understanding who is at risk for BPH can help in early diagnosis and timely treatment. As a leading urologist in Jaipur, Dr. Saurabh Jain from Jaipur Uro Clinic explains the common risk factors for BPH and how you can manage them effectively.
What is BPH?
BPH stands for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, a condition where the prostate gland increases in size and presses against the urethra. This leads to urinary symptoms like:
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Difficulty starting urination
- Weak or interrupted urine stream
- Feeling of incomplete bladder emptying
BPH is not life-threatening, but untreated cases can lead to complications like urinary tract infections, bladder stones, and kidney problems.
Age: The Most Common Risk Factor
Age is one of the strongest risk factors for BPH. Men usually don’t develop symptoms before the age of 40, but the likelihood of BPH increases significantly with age. By the time men reach their 60s or 70s, the majority will experience some degree of prostate enlargement.
Genetic and Hormonal Influence
Another key factor is family history. If your father or brother has had BPH, you are more likely to develop it as well. Genetics can influence the way the prostate grows and reacts to hormonal changes over time. Hormonal imbalances also play a role. As men age, levels of testosterone and its byproduct, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), fluctuate. These hormonal shifts can lead to abnormal growth of the prostate tissue, contributing to BPH.
Lifestyle and Medical Conditions
Lifestyle and health conditions are also important. Being overweight, leading a sedentary lifestyle, and eating an unhealthy diet can increase your risk. Men with chronic health issues like diabetes, heart disease, or high blood pressure are also more likely to experience prostate enlargement. Some studies also suggest that smoking and excessive alcohol intake can worsen BPH symptoms or make the condition more difficult to manage. While these habits may not directly cause BPH, they can contribute to bladder irritation and make existing symptoms worse.
When to Seek Medical Advice
If you’re noticing urinary issues such as frequent urination, weak stream, nighttime urination, or difficulty starting or stopping the flow, it’s time to speak to a specialist. Early diagnosis helps prevent complications like bladder stones, urinary infections, or kidney problems.
Expert Opinion: Dr. Saurabh Jain
Dr. Saurabh Jain, a leading Urologist in Jaipur, emphasises the importance of timely consultation. According to him, many men ignore early symptoms, assuming it’s a normal part of ageing. But with the right care, BPH can be managed effectively through medication, lifestyle changes, or minor procedures.
Conclusion
While BPH is a common part of ageing for men, knowing if you’re at risk can help you take control early. If you are above 40, have a family history, or suffer from chronic health conditions, don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. Consult Dr. Saurabh Jain at Jaipur Uro Clinic and take proactive steps for a healthier prostate and a better quality of life.
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Consult Our Expert- Dr. Saurabh Jain
Urologist in Jaipur
MS, DNB (Urology)
Call Now: +91 7014100698, +91 8506062026
