As you grow older, health issues tend to crop up. One of the common problems with older men is benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH, which is characterized by the enlargement of the prostate gland. As the gland grows in size, it exerts pressure against the urethra and narrows it down. Gradually, you experience symptoms such as dribbling, difficulty in urination, and frequent toilet trips, particularly at night. Ignoring the disease can have far-reaching implications such as blood in the urine, urinary tract infections, and even kidney damage. Foraging men, it becomes important to understand the symptoms and know the treatment options for the condition. Here are some lesser-known facts you need to know.
Fact #1: Almost all men have enlarged prostate eventually
BPH is more common than you believe and there are chances that you will have it eventually if you live long enough. Though men should start with an annual examination after the age of forty, stats show that more than 50% of males over 60 years develop an enlarged prostate and the probability rises to 90% in men over 80. The risk keeps increasing as you grow older. And your chances get even higher if the condition runs in the family, that is, your father or brother have it.
Fact #2: BPH is not cancer and neither does it elevate the risk
Although enlarged prostate is a cause of concern for seniors, the good news is that it is not cancerous. And you will be relieved to know that it does not elevate your risk for developing prostate cancer. However, the two conditions can occur simultaneously. It is best to seek expert opinion and undergo the recommended diagnostic tests to rule out the possibility of cancer.
Fact #3: Supplements can help
Though you cannot do much about the risk of an enlarged prostate, there are some supplements that you can rely on for dealing with the symptoms. Made from natural ingredients, these pills go a long way in resolving the issue and providing relief from its nagging effects. And you can go through prostate pill reviews to see how effective they have been for men of all ages. The sooner you start taking them, the better are your chances of getting your life back on track quickly.
Fact #4: Untreated BPH can lead to serious complications
Although prostate pills can help, you need to start the treatment early and take them regularly as well. Dismissing the urinary symptoms just as a part of the normal aging process will only aggravate the problems in the long run. Symptoms can get bothersome over time, with the bladder wall thickening and losing the capacity to store urine. You will end up losing sleep and being uncomfortable due to frequent urination. Urinary retention, incontinence, blood in the urine, bladder stones, and kidney damage are some of the more serious complications of BPH.
Considering these facts, enlarged prostate needs more attention than you think. And you should be all the more careful as you get older because the risk increases year after year.
Senior Outlook Today is your go-to source for information, inspiration, and connection as you navigate the later years of life. Our team of experts and writers is dedicated to providing relevant and engaging content for seniors, covering topics such as health and wellness, finances, technology and travel.
