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| Understanding Enlarged Prostate | |
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As men get older, many health concerns come to mind. However, one of the most important health concerns is enlarged prostate. Enlarged prostate is also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The prostate gland is located just below a man’s bladder. It envelopes the urethra, the tube that carries urine and semen out of through the penis. The prostate helps control release of these fluids. The prostate goes through two growth stages, one in childhood and one after the age of 40. Sometimes, as the prostate gets larger it squeezes the urethra. This pressure makes it extremely hard for the bladder to empty. Men get very frustrated because this process involves visiting the restroom more often, or may involve not visiting the restroom at all. When the bladder begins to work harder to get rid of urine, the muscle walls of the bladder become thick and aggravated so the bladder can not work normally. It is extremely important to realize when these issues are arising in your life time. If you have an enlarged prostate, many signs, symptoms and effects will be present in your life. These symptoms can change your life, so it is important to see Carolina Urology Center as soon as possible. Signs and Symptoms • Have a weak urine stream that starts and stops • Urinate frequently • Have trouble urinating • Get out of bed numerous times to urinate • Leak or dribble after going to the bathroom • Feel a strong and sudden urge to urinate • See small amounts of blood in your urine Remember that under no circumstances is an enlarged prostate your fault. As far experts know there are not any lifestyle changes to keep your prostate from growing. Genetics are a large factor, however obesity and cigarette smoking may also play a role. The hormone that causes this growth is DHT, which is a form of testosterone. The same hormone that makes you lose your hair. Although there are common complications from enlarged prostate including: Urinary Tract Infections -a burning feeling while urinating, urinating often, pain in your back or abdomen, cloudy or bloody urine, and fever and chills. Having surgery or taking medicine can reduce your risks of furture problems. Over time, if a enlarged prostate is not treated by Carolina Urology Center it can damage your kidneys, cause bladder and kidney stones, incontinence and even acute urinary retention (AUR). You should call Carolina Urology Immediately if, you have Fever or chills Severe worsening of urinary symptoms Cloudy, strange smelling or bloody urine Pain in your abdomen or back Can’t urinate at all Care, attention and education are the best ways to treat and understand an Enlarged Prostate. The doctors at Carolina Urology can assist you with doing so. |
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