- It is estimated that up to 50% of men over the age of 50 may suffer from it at some point.
- Although it is a common condition in older men, it requires a professional diagnosis to rule out prostate cancer.
- The incidence in Mexico is 424.86 cases per 100,000 men.
November is known as Men’s Health Month and one of the goals is to encourage regular medical checkups. The sooner diseases are identified, the more likely it is to offer an alternative cure. On the other hand, within the different diseases that exist there is one that is quite frequent in older men, You know which one is?
It’s about the benign prostatic hyperplasia, also called “enlarged prostate gland”. It is a frequent condition as men age and is mainly due to the hormonal changes that occur with age. In fact, up to 50% of men over the age of 50 may suffer from it.
It is characterized by the increase in the size of the prostate, which is normally the size of a walnut and is located below the bladder, surrounding the urethra. Over the years, it can grow and when this growth occurs abnormally, it has an impact on the quality of life of man.
The incidence of benign prostatic hyperplasia is 424.86 cases and its prevalence is 3,873.73 patients per 100,000 men in Mexico. Sometimes patients are overwhelmed thinking that it is cancer; however, it is growth of the prostate gland.
Symptoms of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Men with an enlarged prostate can vary their symptoms, but as time goes by, they can worsen and become more severe. Some common signs and symptoms are:
- Burning when urinating.
- Repeatedly going to the bathroom.
- Fever, headache and body cut.
- When urinating, a flow without force is felt and this is compacted by small jets.
- He is left with the feeling that he wants to urinate.
When should you see a specialist?
Once any of the symptoms are detected, it is recommended to see a specialist in Urology as soon as possible. Through a physical examination and digital rectal examination, you will be able to detect the disease in time to determine the most appropriate treatment for the patient’s condition.
How can it be treated?
In mild and moderate cases, a change in the daily diet helps to reduce the symptoms, in addition to administering some medications to reduce the pressure of the urethra. In some cases, surgery is used; however, today there is state-of-the-art technology and it is also possible to resort to the operating room.
Also read:
Men’s health: 4 actions to encourage timely detection
Survey reveals the 2 health problems that worry men the most
Common practices and lifestyle could cause male infertility