Understanding urinary symptoms
Weak flow, straining, repeated night-time urination and incomplete emptying can occur with benign prostate enlargement (BPH). Bladder problems, infection and other conditions can cause similar symptoms.
Assessment may include a symptom history, urine testing, prostate examination, urine flow measurement and a check of residual urine. PSA testing is considered in the appropriate context.
Choosing treatment
Observation, habit changes, medicines and procedures all have roles. The severity of symptoms, bladder emptying, complications, prostate anatomy and your priorities guide the choice.
Procedural discussions may cover transurethral resection, laser techniques or suitable minimally invasive approaches such as water-vapour treatment or a prostatic urethral lift. Eligibility and local availability need individual confirmation.
What matters to you
Tell Dr. Sachin how symptoms affect sleep, work and daily activities. Also discuss ejaculation, erections, the possibility of a catheter and your expectations of recovery. The least invasive option is not automatically the most appropriate option for every prostate.
Bring previous prostate scans, urine reports, PSA results and a list of medicines, including non-prescription products.
Questions to ask
- Is obstruction from the prostate the main cause of my symptoms?
- Is my bladder emptying adequately?
- What are the expected benefits and sexual side effects?
- How likely is another procedure to be needed?
Inability to pass urine, fever with urinary symptoms, or significant bleeding with clots needs prompt medical assessment.
Common questions
Does BPH mean I have prostate cancer?
No. Benign enlargement is not prostate cancer, although both can occur in the same person.
Does a larger prostate always cause worse symptoms?
No. Symptoms and obstruction do not correspond perfectly to prostate size.