What Causes Enlarged Prostate in Men?

Understanding what an enlarged prostate is and why it's essential to address its symptoms is the first step in managing this common male health issue. An enlarged prostate, or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), can significantly impact a man's quality of life. For example, symptoms like frequent urination can disrupt sleep, leading to fatigue and decreased overall well-being. Dr. Ahmad Kasraeian and Dr. Ali Kasraeian, board-certified urologists at Kasraeian Urology in Jacksonville, FL, emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and comprehensive care to manage the condition effectively.

What factors contribute to developing an enlarged prostate?

While the medical community hasn't pinpointed the exact cause of an enlarged prostate, a variety of factors are thought to contribute. Aging is a significant player, but it's not the only one. Additional risk factors may include:

• Hormonal changes, particularly reductions in testosterone and increases in estrogen
• A family history of prostate or other urinary issues
• Underlying health conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity
• Lifestyle elements like diet, physical inactivity, and stress

What symptoms are red flags for an enlarged prostate?

Early detection of symptoms is crucial for better management of an enlarged prostate. Key symptoms to watch out for include:

• An increased frequency of urination, particularly at night
• Difficulty in starting the urine stream
• A weak or interrupted urine stream
• A sense of incomplete bladder emptying
• Sudden urges to urinate that can't be delayed

If you find yourself facing any of these warning signs, don't hesitate to seek advice from a specialized urologist in Jacksonville, FL, like Dr. Kasraeian. The earlier you consult, the more effective your management plan can be.

How do doctors diagnose an enlarged prostate?

Diagnosis involves a multi-step approach, starting with a detailed patient history and physical examination. A PSA test or prostate-specific antigen test may be performed to evaluate elevated levels of PSA in your blood. In some cases, a digital rectal exam may be conducted, where a physician uses a finger to assess prostate enlargement via the rectum. Additional evaluations might encompass a urine flow analysis and a test to gauge how fully you can empty your bladder, known as a postvoid residual volume test. For more complicated scenarios, procedures like a prostate biopsy or ultrasound imaging could be considered.

How can Kasraeian Urology be your healthcare partner?

Dealing with an enlarged prostate can be a challenging experience, but you don't have to go through it alone. Dr. Ahmad Kasraeian and Dr. Ali Kasraeian at Kasraeian Urology in Jacksonville, FL, offer expert evaluations and personalized care plans to help manage the symptoms and navigate the intricacies of this condition through effective treatment.

If you're experiencing symptoms of an enlarged prostate, take action now. Schedule a consultation with the experienced team at Kasraeian Urology to discuss your symptoms and begin the journey toward better health and well-being.