Enlarged prostate  [BPH]

 1] What is the Prostate?

The prostate is a small gland in the male reproduetive systeml. It is located below the bladder and is wrapped around the urethra{the tube for urine to flow}. Prostate contributes to the milky fluid{semen}that carries the sperm.

 2] What is enlarged prostate{benign prostatic hyperplasia)?

As men age, their prostate enlarges.This condition is non-cancerous, and is called enlarged prostate, or benign prostatic hyperplasia {BPH}

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 3] At what age does BPH develop?
One in 4 men over 40, and one in 3 men over 60 ave BPH. The Prostate often starts enlarging when a man is past forty

 4] How does BPH occur?
BPH is a consequence of aging, and a disorder of the male hormone testosterone, which triggers a growth in the prostate cells.
As the prostate grows Larger, it presses on the urethra.
The narrowing of the urethra can cause some men with BPH to have trouble with urination

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5] Warning signs the may indicate an enlarged prostate:
A weak stream of urine, or stopping and starting of the stream
Leaking of urine
Dribbling of urine, especially after urinating
A sense of not emptying the bladder
Difficulty starting urination
Frequent urination, especilly at night
A strong and sudden desire to urinate
Blood in the urine

Many men with enlarged prostate have no symptioms.
If you have a urinary tract infection, you may have burning or pain during urination

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6] What laboratory tests & physical examination will I have to undergo?
History taking for urinary problems
Physical examination
Rectal examination
Urine and blood analysis

Based on the above assessments, your doctor may refer you to an urologist for further tests.

7] What are my teratment options?
If you have mild symptoms, your doctor will suggest routine checkups without any treatment--this is called watchful waiting.
If you have complications or your symptoms are severe, your doctor may recommend surgery. However, if your symptoms are moderate, your doctor will prescribe medication. Ask your doctor about the potential risks and benefite of medicastion and surgery.

8] Do I need to seek medical advice while on therapy?
you should call your doctor if:
 You Have brothersome symptoms.
 You notice blood in your urine.l
 You have burning urination{you may have a urinary tract infection}
 You urine flow stops completely--seek immediate medical help

9] Steps to better prostate health:

     Although you cannot prevent the prostates from enlarging, you can take measures to reduce your symptoms.

You can:
 Limit intake of liquids in the evening, especially those containing alcohol, and caffeine
 Diet control: Avoid sugar, tobacco, sodas, spicy food, coffee, alcohol and red meats. Eat more of vegetables, peas,dals,beans,and fresh fish.
 Ask your doctor whether you can change or eliminate medicastions that can aggravate the problem{e.g., medication for cough and cold,depression,etc.}
 Kegel exercises strenthen the pelvic muscles{the muscles that you use to urinate}
 Making these muscles stronger helps you hold urine in bladder longer.
 To do---Contract pubic muscles{the muscles arround your anus and testes}for 5 counts, release for 5 counts . Do 20 times to start with, and go up to 60 repetitions a day.Breath normallly throughout.
 Yoga stretches and strengsthens your muscles, improves cirulation of blood.