Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), commonly known as prostate enlargement, is a non-cancerous increase in the size of the prostate gland. This condition primarily affects men over the age of 50 and can significantly impact quality of life. Fortunately, with advances in medical technology, BPH can now be managed effectively through early diagnosis and minimally invasive treatments.
If you’re experiencing frequent urination or difficulty in emptying your bladder completely, you might be dealing with BPH. Read on to understand its signs, diagnosis methods, and the latest treatment options available under the expert care of Dr. Anup Gulati, one of the leading urologists in India.
🔍 What is the Prostate and Why Does It Enlarge?
The prostate is a small, walnut-shaped gland located just below the bladder in men. It surrounds the urethra—the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body. As men age, the prostate gland may gradually enlarge due to hormonal changes, particularly involving dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and testosterone.
This enlargement, though benign, can press against the urethra and obstruct the flow of urine, leading to lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS).
🚨 Common Signs and Symptoms of BPH
BPH symptoms can vary from person to person but typically include:
- Frequent urination, especially at night (nocturia)
- Urgency to urinate
- Difficulty starting urination
- Weak or interrupted urine stream
- Incomplete bladder emptying
- Dribbling at the end of urination
- Urinary retention in severe cases
If left untreated, BPH can lead to bladder damage, urinary tract infections, kidney problems, or bladder stones.
🧪 How is BPH Diagnosed?
Diagnosis of BPH is based on clinical evaluation, medical history, and a series of diagnostic tests. At Dr. Anup Gulati’s clinic, a comprehensive evaluation includes:
1. Digital Rectal Examination (DRE)
A quick physical exam to assess the size and texture of the prostate.
2. Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test
Measures PSA levels in the blood to rule out prostate cancer.
3. Urine Flow Test
Determines the strength and amount of urine flow.
4. Post-Void Residual Volume Test
Checks how much urine is left in the bladder after urination.
5. Ultrasound (TRUS)
Transrectal ultrasound offers detailed imaging of the prostate gland.
6. Uroflowmetry & Urodynamic Testing
Advanced tests that help understand how well the bladder and urethra are functioning.
Early diagnosis can help prevent complications and ensure better outcomes with less invasive procedures.
🛠️ Treatment Options for BPH
The treatment for BPH depends on the severity of symptoms, size of the prostate, and overall health of the patient. Dr. Anup Gulati offers personalized treatment plans that range from conservative management to cutting-edge surgical options.
💊 1. Lifestyle Modifications and Medications
Mild to moderate symptoms of BPH may be managed through:
➤ Lifestyle Changes:
- Reducing caffeine and alcohol
- Limiting evening fluid intake
- Bladder training exercises
➤ Medications:
- Alpha-blockers (e.g., Tamsulosin): Relax prostate muscles to improve urine flow
- 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors (e.g., Finasteride): Shrink the prostate over time
- Combination therapy: For better symptom relief in larger prostates
🔬 2. Minimally Invasive Treatments
When medications fail or side effects are intolerable, minimally invasive procedures offer effective alternatives with faster recovery and less risk compared to traditional surgery.
✅ a) UroLift System
- A non-surgical procedure
- Lifts and holds the enlarged prostate tissue out of the way
- Preserves sexual function
- Outpatient treatment with rapid symptom relief
✅ b) Rezūm™ Water Vapor Therapy
- Uses steam to shrink excess prostate tissue
- Performed in-office under local anesthesia
- Improvement seen in weeks
- Minimal downtime
✅ c) Transurethral Microwave Thermotherapy (TUMT)
- Delivers heat via a catheter to destroy enlarged tissue
- Suitable for high-risk surgical patients
✅ d) Transurethral Needle Ablation (TUNA)
- Uses radiofrequency energy to eliminate excess prostate tissue
- Performed under local or spinal anesthesia
🏥 3. Surgical Treatments (For Advanced Cases)
When minimally invasive options aren’t sufficient, advanced surgical techniques may be necessary:
⚙️ Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP)
- Gold standard for moderate to severe BPH
- Involves removing excess prostate tissue using a resectoscope
- Requires short hospital stay
⚙️ Laser Surgery (HoLEP or GreenLight Laser)
- Uses high-energy laser to remove or vaporize overgrown tissue
- Less bleeding, shorter hospital stay, and quicker recovery
🕒 Recovery and Outlook
Most men undergoing minimally invasive procedures or surgery for BPH experience significant symptom relief within weeks. At Dr. Anup Gulati’s clinic, patients receive complete post-procedure support including lifestyle guidance, medication review, and follow-up diagnostics to ensure lasting results.
🩺 Why Choose Dr. Anup Gulati for BPH Treatment?
With years of experience in treating urological conditions, Dr. Anup Gulati is a trusted name in advanced prostate care. His approach combines accurate diagnosis, patient-centered planning, and the latest in minimally invasive technologies to help patients achieve symptom relief with minimal disruption to daily life.
Whether you are in the early stages of BPH or have been dealing with persistent symptoms, expert care makes all the difference.
📍 Book Your Consultation
If you are experiencing any urinary difficulties, don’t ignore the signs. Early intervention is key.