BENIGN PROSTATIC HYPERPLASIA

BENIGN PROSTATIC HYPERPLASIA

Definition Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. It is a common condition in older men.

Types of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia There are two main types of BPH:

• Adenomatous hyperplasia: This is the most common type, where the prostate gland is enlarged due to an increase in the number of glandular tissue cells.
• Fibromatous hyperplasia: This type is characterized by an increase in the amount of fibrous tissue in the prostate gland.

Pathophysiology of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia The exact cause of BPH is not known, but it is thought to be related to an imbalance of hormones, such as testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT).

• Hormonal imbalance: The prostate gland is sensitive to hormones, particularly testosterone and DHT. An imbalance of these hormones can lead to an increase in the size of the prostate gland.
• Stimulation of prostatic tissue: The growth of the prostate gland is stimulated by the presence of testosterone and DHT.

Clinical Features of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia The symptoms of BPH can vary from person to person, but common symptoms include:

• Urinary frequency: The need to urinate frequently, particularly at night.
• Urinary urgency: A sudden and intense need to urinate.
• Weak urinary stream: A weak flow of urine.
• Straining to urinate: Straining to urinate due to a weak urinary stream.
• Nocturia: Waking up multiple times at night to urinate.

Digital Rectal Examination Findings in Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia During a digital rectal examination, the prostate gland can be felt to be enlarged.

• Enlarged prostate gland: The prostate gland feels larger than normal.
• Irregular texture: The prostate gland may feel irregular in texture.

Diagnostic Tests for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Diagnostic tests for BPH include:

• Urinary flow rate: Measures the flow rate of urine.
• Urine analysis: Tests for blood, protein, or infection in the urine.
• Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to create images of the prostate gland.

Surgical Management of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Surgical management of BPH includes:

• Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP): Removal of a portion of the prostate gland through the urethra.
• Open prostatectomy: Removal of the entire prostate gland through an incision in the abdomen or perineum.
• Laser therapy: Uses a laser to shrink the prostate gland.

Homoeopathic Therapeutics for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Homoeopathic medicines for BPH include:

• Calcarea phosphorica: Relieves symptoms of BPH, such as urinary frequency and urgency.
• Selenium: Relieves symptoms of BPH, such as weak urinary stream and straining to urinate.
• Thuja: Relieves symptoms of BPH, such as nocturia and frequent urination.
• Cantharis: Relieves symptoms of BPH, such as burning during urination and frequent urination.
• Berberis: Relieves symptoms of BPH, such as urinary frequency and urgency.

Important Points

• Symptoms of BPH can be similar to those of other conditions, such as urinary tract infections or prostate cancer.
• BPH can increase the risk of complications, such as urinary retention and bladder damage.
• Surgical management of BPH can have side effects, such as infection and bleeding.
• Homoeopathic medicines for BPH may not be effective for everyone.