How do you know if you have BPH?

Diagnosis

  1. Digital rectal exam. The doctor inserts a finger into the rectum to check your prostate for enlargement.
  2. Urine test. Analyzing a sample of your urine can help rule out an infection or other conditions that can cause similar symptoms.
  3. Blood test.
  4. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test.

How does prostate feel in BPH?

Diagnosis of BPH The prostate can be felt just in front of the rectum. A prostate affected by benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) feels enlarged, symmetrical, and smooth but is not painful to the touch. Firm or hard areas may indicate prostate cancer .

What is the difference between enlarged prostate and BPH?

Yes, BPH is by definition an enlarged prostate, and no, because the cause is not an infection/inflammation like prostatitis. However, not all enlarged prostates are due to BPH. An enlarged prostate may be caused by BPH, prostatitis, and prostate cancer.

How can you detect an enlarged prostate at home?

put on some gloves and put lubricant on one finger. assess the area around the rectum for anything unusual. gently insert a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum. feel the prostate to assess the size and check for bumps, soft or hard spots, and other abnormalities.

What happens if BPH is left untreated?

First, although it has nothing to do with cancer, untreated BPH has the potential to lead to serious complications, ranging from urinary tract infections and stones in the bladder or kidney to urinary retention and kidney damage.

What will a urologist do for enlarged prostate?

With this surgery, a urologist uses a high-energy laser to destroy prostate tissue. The urologist uses a cystoscope to pass a laser fiber through the urethra into the prostate. The laser destroys the enlarged tissue.

What should you not drink with an enlarged prostate?

Prostate Symptoms Better With Alcohol Men with an enlarged prostate, they say, shouldn’t drink alcoholic beverages. It’s supposed to make the symptoms of an enlarged prostate — urinary flow, urinary irritation, and poor sexual function — worse.

How often should you massage prostate?

A regular prostate massage a couple of times a month may do wonders for erectile dysfunction, improved ejaculation, reduced pelvic pain and tension, and overall sexual performance. Those with enlarged prostates may benefit from weekly prostate massage to promote drainage, minimize swelling and improve urine flow.

What is the main cause of prostate enlargement?

The cause of prostate enlargement is unknown, but it’s believed to be linked to hormonal changes as a man gets older. The balance of hormones in your body changes as you get older and this may cause your prostate gland to grow.