Enlargement of the prostate

Enlargement of the prostate starts slowly from the age of 35 onwards and from the age of 70 onwards benign enlargement (benign hyperplasia) of the prostate is found in many men. The prostate is known to be divided into several areas and the enlargement usually begins where the urethra runs through the prostate (periurethral area). As a result, the enlargement of the prostate puts pressure on the urethra, constricts it and can cause problems when urinating.

For example, the urine stream is weakened, the urine cannot be excreted completely and residual urine remains in the bladder, which is why you have to go to the toilet more often and also at night. The consequences of this affect the kidneys and can cause long-term damage to them. To date, the cause of prostate enlargement is still unknown and several theories are discussed, ranging from hormone metabolism processes to interactions of the prostate tissue.

Prostatic hyperplasia can be divided into 3 stages, which can be classified according to the symptoms. Stage I is characterized by a more difficult bladder emptying, which can sometimes be painful. In addition, it is increasingly common for the affected person to have to go to the toilet at night.The first changes can also be seen in the urine stream when urinating: the beginning of urination is more difficult and the urine stream is no longer as strong as before.

This weakening of the stream can be recognized, for example, by whether one could still urinate over a garden fence. In stage I, however, no residual urine remains in the bladder; complete emptying of the bladder by urination is still possible. The further stages are characterized by progressive symptoms.

Initially, more than 50 milliliters of residual urine remain in the bladder (stage II), then damage to the kidney due to prostate enlargement becomes manifest (stage III). The classification into these stages is made after discussions and extensive examinations by the doctor. In addition to the conversation and physical examination, an ultrasound examination and laboratory chemical tests are also important.

The therapy of prostate enlargement is initially carried out with medication in the case of small enlargements, in later stages or in the case of major complaints, surgical removal of the prostate is a possibility. If not treated, an enlarged prostate can also cause further problems. These include urinary tract infections, which are caused by residual urine, but also painful urinary stones, which can still cause urinary congestion. In summary, it can be said that prostate enlargement is not a malignant disease or is to be regarded as a precursor of a malignant disease, but can cause some unpleasant symptoms, which is why therapy and the reduction of the symptoms should be sought.