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Your prostate is a small gland in the body, charged with producing semen. As you grow older, it tends to get larger. And, due to its location below your bladder, that enlargement can cause lower urinary tract symptoms and other signs of prostate problems. But how can you tell when to seek medical attention? Here’s what you need to know.

man seeking a doctor's opinion on prostate problems

Common signs of prostate problems

Any of the following symptoms could indicate developing prostate problems:

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s time to speak with your healthcare provider. They could be a sign that you’re experiencing one or more of the prostate problems highlighted below.

Prostate conditions: seeking diagnosis

Many of the symptoms listed above could be associated with more than one condition affecting the prostate. Potential concerns include: 

Because these prostate problems all have some overlapping symptoms, its important to see your healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. With timely medical attention, you can receive a diagnosis of infection, or differentiate between BPH vs prostate cancer. Then, if BPH is the cause of your prostate problems, you can request a consultation with the Georgia Prostate Institute. When you come into our offices, we can review your candidacy for minimally invasive Prostate Artery Embolization, relieving your symptoms without the risks of surgery.

Symptoms such as urgent or frequent urination; waking in the night to urinate; or struggling to start or stop urinary flow could indicate benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). But how are doctors diagnosing BPH? Here's what you need to know.

stethoscope with crossed arms

Causes of an Enlarged Prostate

What is BPH? This is a condition in which prostate cells experience accelerated growth, leading to gland enlargement. Affecting approximately 50% of men over the age of 50, prostate enlargement can create on the urethra, triggering BPH symptoms that mostly affect the lower urinary tract. Now, this condition can develop in any individual with a prostate. But a new study just uncovered a a genetic link that increases BPH risk, helping clarify some of the underlying causes for this condition.

Diagnosing BPH

If you visit your doctor complaining of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS) such as the ones highlighted above, the healthcare provider should begin the process of diagnosing BPH or ruling out other conditions such as infections or prostate cancer.

The first step will likely be a digital rectal exam. Your doctor with insert a gloved finger into the rectum to feel for prostate enlargement or other abnormalities. Blood tests can check your prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels, with results indicating the presence or lack of prostate enlargement.  Additional diagnostics, including urine tests; ultrasounds; or a biopsy may be necessary to finalize a diagnosis, whether that means diagnosing BPH or determining a different cause of prostate enlargement.

Choosing Treatments for BPH

After diagnosing BPH, you can begin exploring treatment options. Some men may find symptom relief by improving their diets, managing their fluid intake, and removing triggers such as alcohol or caffeine. Medications may offer BPH relief, along with the added benefit of protection from Lewy body dementia , according to this study. However, for men who don't find sufficient symptom relief by choosing these treatment options, Prostatic Artery Embolization (PAE), may be a better way forward. This is a minimally-invasive interventional radiology procedure; it shrinks the prostate with fewer side effects than surgery. To learn more about PAE and see if you're a candidate for this procedure, simply request a consultation at the Georgia Prostate Institute.

Are you exploring Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) treatment options, and researching prostatic artery embolization (PAE) and Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP)? Each procedure can provide effective BPH relief, but also comes with unique considerations. Here's the critical information to consider when comparing PAE vs TURP.

Male patient at urologist's office

What's the Difference Between PAE vs TURP?

When you're suffering from BPH symptoms, you may be able to find relief with PAE and/or TURP, but different patients will be better suited for one medical procedure over the other. PAE treatment, available at the Georgia Prostate Institute, is a minimally invasive medical procedure that blocks blood supply to the prostate gland, causing it to shrink. It is an outpatient procedure performed without general anesthesia. TURP, however, is a surgical procedure that removes enlarged prostate tissue. It's performed using general anesthesia, typically neccessitating an overnight hospital stay.

Risks and Benefits

Since PAE a minimally invasive procedure, any associated side effects, including pelvic pain or pain with urination, are minimal and tempory. The recovery period is also shorter than after a surgical procedure, and, according to currently available data, PAE effectively relieves symptoms of BPH for at least six years.

In contrast, patients recovering from TURP will need to spend between one and three days in the hospital after surgery. Catheterization for at least 24 hours will also be necessary. TURP also comes with a greater risk for serious and longer-lasting side effects, including bleeding and retrograde ejaculation (in which semen flows back into the bladder instead of out through the urethra.)

Cost of PAE vs TURP

Both PAE and TURP should be covered by insurance, but some out of pocket expenses will still be likely. Typically, PAE is less expensive than TURP as it doesn't require overnight hospital stays or the cost of general anesthesia.

Choosing The Right Treatment for BPH

Before deciding between PAE vs TURP, consider:

Do you need help choosing your best treatment option for an enlarged Prostate? To explore your Prostatic Artery Embolization candidacy, reach out to our interventional radiology team  and request a consultation.

If you have benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) following a diet for enlarged prostate can help with symptom management. Of course, the only way to find lasting relief is to seek treatment that shrinks your prostate. But, if you're still researching treatment options, try making the following changes to your diet in order to improve your quality of life.

a plate of fruits and vegetables

What's the Best Diet for Enlarged Prostate?

If you're experiencing BPH symptoms such as urinary frequency and difficulty with urinary flow, one of the best ways to relieve these lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) is with a medical procedure such as prostatic artery embolization procedure.

Including certain foods, while removing others, may help improve symptoms, especially those of urgency and night-time waking to urinate. Be sure to:

Slowing Prostate Cancer Through Diet

In addition to playing a role in BPH management, new data published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology shows how diet can help after a prostate cancer diagnosis. UCLA Health Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center researchers learned that a low omega-6, high omega-3 fatty acid diet, combined with fish oil supplements, could slow the growth of cancer cells in men with early-stage prostate cancer.

Dr. William Aronson, the lead study author, said, “Many men are interested in lifestyle changes, including diet, to help manage their cancer and prevent the progression of their disease. Our findings suggest that something as simple as adjusting your diet could potentially slow cancer growth and extend the time before more aggressive interventions are needed." He concluded, “This is an important step toward understanding how diet can potentially influence prostate cancer outcomes.”

Manage BPH with Other Lifestyle Measures

Now we've seen how diet can impact prostate health, lets look at other lifestyle measures to support prostate health. Aside from following a diet for enlarged prostate, there are other little changes you can make to relieve some of your BPH symptoms. Make sure to lose weight if you're above a healthy number, and, regardless of your weight, try exercising at a moderate to vigorous level, most days of the week.

Next, cut back on caffeine and alcohol, since both increase the need to urinate. And avoid drinking anything within a few hours of bedtime to reduce middle of the night wakings. Finally, if you're looking for more lasting relief from BPH, Click here to request an appointment at the Georgia Prostate Institute. Together, we'll discover if you are a candidate for PAE!

If you’re experiencing back and leg pain and suspect it might be linked to an enlarged prostate, you’re not alone. An enlarged prostate can lead to discomfort in these areas, often due to conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostatitis (prostate inflammation), or even prostate cancer.

Keep reading to discover how an enlarged prostate can contribute to back and leg pain and learn about effective treatment options to help relieve your discomfort and improve your quality of life.

Man holding his back and leg in pain

Enlarged Prostate Symptoms

The most common symptoms of an enlarged prostate are described as LUTS, or lower urinary tract symptoms. These include:  

If you have an enlarged prostate along with symptoms like hip, lower back, or abdomen pain,  unexplained weight loss, swelling or numbness in the legs, new erectile dysfunction, or blood in the urine, talk your doctor immediately. These signs could indicate a more serious condition, like prostate cancer.

Dealing with Back Pain From an Enlarged Prostate

When managing prostate back pain, a combination of lifestyle changes and medical treatments can help.

Strengthening exercises for the lower back may provide relief, but it’s important to avoid activities like cycling that could put extra strain on the area.

You may also find relief from back pain and other mild BPH symptoms by adjusting your diet and hydration, such as increasing fiber intake and drinking more water during the day, while limiting fluids before bed time.

However, if your symptoms become moderate to severe, a medical procedure may be needed to relieve the effects of BPH. Since conditions like prostatitis (prostate inflammation) and prostate cancer can also cause prostate enlargement and similar symptoms, further evaluation may be necessary to determine the right treatment approach.

Treatment for an Enlarged Prostate

If you’re struggling with painful leg and back symptoms due to an enlarged prostate, treatment options are available that can provide much-needed relief.

Identifying the cause of prostate enlargement is crucial for guiding your next steps. But if BPH is the issues, you may be able to avoid surgery and enhance your quality of life by considering Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) treatment. This minimally invasive procedure reduces the size of the prostate by blocking blood flow to the gland, all without major incisions or general anesthesia. Available at the Georgia Prostate Institute, you can request a consultation  to learn more about PAE and assess your candidacy for this effective BPH treatment option.

Most men will develop an enlarged prostate in their lifetime. But what’s the average onset age for enlarged prostate concerns? Well, the risk for BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia) increases as you age, since your prostate gland continues growing with you. This post highlights age-related prostate risks, while also highlighting BPH treatment options.

Male patient at urologist's office

By the Decade Guide to Age for Enlarged Prostate

In each decade, your prostate health will differ. Here is a general guideline of what to expect.  

Now, BPH is not prostate cancer, but the two conditions share some common symptoms. For that reason, you should seek medical attention As such, it’s important to seek timely medical attention if you notice any of the symptoms highlighted below.

BPH Symptoms to Watch For

When your prostate becomes enlarged, it presses against the bladder and urethra, leading to difficulties urinating. Some men need to urinate frequently; experience urgency; or find it hard to empty the bladder completely. Your urinary flow may be weak; interrupted; or it may be difficult to stop or start the flow. However, with BPH treatment, you can resolve many of these concerns.

Addressing an Enlarged Prostate

Once you reach the age for enlarged prostate, you may make lifestyle modifications such as:  

Medications could also help with symptom relief, but for more persistent concerns, a medical procedure may be the best treatment option.

PAE in Georgia: Relief for BPH

Here at the Georgia Prostate Institute, we relieve BPH with prostatic artery embolization (PAE.) This minimally invasive procedure allows you to shrink your prostate without surgery. request a consultation today to see if you’re a candidate for PAE. 

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer are two of the most common conditions that affect the prostate.

The prostate gland is a small, walnut-shaped organ located below the bladder, between the base of the penis and the rectum. It is responsible for supplying part of your seminal fluid and plays a role in ejaculation.

In both BPH and prostate cancer, the prostate gland becomes enlarged. However, BPH is a benign, non-cancerous condition that cannot spread. Prostate cancer, on the other hand, can spread to different parts of the body and organs if left untreated.

So, how can you tell the difference between BPH vs prostate cancer? Keep reading to understand BPH and prostate cancer basics, learn their key differences, how to tell their symptoms apart, and when to seek medical treatment.

The Basics of BPH

BPH is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland caused by abnormal cell growth that causes enlargement and pressure on the urethra. While we don’t know why some men develop BPH, the following factors may increase your risk:

The Basics of Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is a malignant tumor that forms within the prostate gland. When cancerous cells grow abnormally, they require medical intervention to avoid metastasis (spreading).

Unlike some cancers, prostate cancer is often slow-growing. This means it can be asymptomatic in the early stages of development, making it difficult to diagnose without regular diagnostic and preventive screening tests.

While there is some overlap between BPH and prostate cancer risk factors, like being over age 50 and having a family history, risk factors for prostate cancer vary slightly. Additional risk factors include:

Comparison Between Prostate Cancer and BPH Symptoms

When it comes to diagnosing BPH and prostate cancer, there are similarities and differences. But how can you tell the difference?

Symptoms common to both BPH and prostate cancer include:

Men experiencing BPH symptoms may feel like their bladder hasn’t emptied, even after they’ve just urinated. They may also need to strain or push to start the flow of urine, and—even when urine starts flowing—it may be difficult to produce more than a dribble.

However, as prostate cancer progresses, you may notice the following symptoms:

If you are having difficulty discerning symptoms of BPH vs prostate cancer, seeking medical evaluation for proper diagnosis and treatment is crucial to avoid complications.

When To See a Doctor for BPH (or Prostate Cancer)

If you’re experiencing any symptoms of BPH or prostate cancer, visit your doctor right away.

They can assess your symptoms and help determine the root cause of your pain and discomfort.

What to Expect During a BPH/Prostate Cancer Screening Appointment

During your visit, your healthcare provider may conduct the following:

BPH vs prostate cancer PSA levels can be four or higher and indicate prostate enlargement.

However, heightened PSA levels alone cannot differentiate prostate cancer vs BPH because it is common for both conditions to have it.

For this reason, your doctor may also need to take a small tissue sample from your prostate (known as a biopsy) to examine it for cancerous cells.

BPH vs Prostate Cancer Treatment Options

Once the cause of your urinary tract symptoms and prostate enlargement is accurately diagnosed, you can begin exploring treatment options.

As most cases of prostate cancer are typically slow-growing, your doctor may advise watching your condition before beginning any medical interventions. However, you may need a more aggressive treatment approach, such as:

If you are diagnosed with BPH, you can often manage symptoms with lifestyle changes and medications. If these treatment options do not provide relief, the skilled specialists at Georgia Prostate Institute invite you to explore our prostatic artery embolization treatment. PAE treatment for BPH is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure that helps alleviate urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate.

Request a consultation today to begin your journey toward long-term relief and improved quality of life.

Are you interested in exploring prostate massage to relieve uncomfortable urinary symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)?

While there is some evidence to suggest massaging the prostate may help release excess seminal fluid from the prostate gland ducts and temporarily alleviate urinary symptoms, BPH massage is not considered a lasting treatment for medical conditions.

Keep reading to learn what BPH is, available treatment options, and the benefits of prostate massage for temporary relief.

Man with prostate problem visiting urologist in clinic, closeup

Understanding BPH

BPH, also known as an enlarged prostate, is a non-cancerous condition that affects the prostate gland in men as they age.

An enlarged prostate gland can press your bladder and urethra, causing BPH symptoms like

BPH symptoms are not life-threatening, but the symptoms can be very unpleasant and make it difficult to get through your daily activities. As a result, many men struggling with symptoms of an enlarged prostate seek out effective treatment options.

Treatment Options for BPH

Georgia Prostate Institute offers several BPH treatment options, depending on the severity of your symptoms.

Some men with mild symptoms can successfully manage their symptoms through lifestyle changes, such as:

Unfortunately, lifestyle modifications are not enough for everyone. Some men may need further interventions, including medications, BPH massage, or prostate artery embolization (PAE) treatment.

Does Prostate Massage Help BPH?

Benefits of BPH Massage

While studies on prostate massage for BPH symptoms are limited, anecdotal evidence suggests the following potential benefits:

Next, we share scientific studies and findings regarding the benefits of prostate massage for BPH.

Studies and Findings on BHP Massage

The data on BPH prostate massage therapy is still emerging. However,  there are a few promising case and research studies.

These small studies suggest BPH massage may be beneficial. However, it is important to note that experts like Cleveland Clinic urologist Dr. Petar Bajic say, “There’s no evidence that a prostate massage provides any medical benefit.”He warns that this type of massage could cause pain, worsen hemorrhoids, or even leave you with a rectal injury.

If you’re looking for a safer, more effective, evidence-based, non-surgical, and long-term treatment for an enlarged prostate, we encourage you to consider PAE treatment at Georgia Prostate Institute. 

Safe, Effective PAE Treatment for BPH at Georgia Prostate Institute

PAE is a game-changing intervention for those seeking relief from the disruptive symptoms of BPH.

There is a large body of evidence detailing the efficacy of the procedure. Review these studies and PAE research to learn how it causes fewer adverse effects than other treatment options.

PAE can help relieve your uncomfortable urinary symptoms and help you get back to doing what you love—uninterrupted.

Request a consultation with the experts at Georgia Prostate Institute today.

Do you wake up at night with an urgent need to urinate? We understand how frustrating it is to have constant interruptions and discomfort from benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

We are here to help you find relief and reclaim your peace. With our deep expertise in managing BPH symptoms, we offer solutions that truly work, such as Cialis for BPH.

Cialis is an oral medication that helps relax the muscles and increase blood flow to the penis, prostate, and bladder, allowing urine to flow more freely.

Next, we explore Cialis treatment for BPH, its impact on urinary and sexual health, and potential side effects.

Medications for mens erectile dysfunction

Understanding BPH

BPH is characterized by an enlarged prostate, which can range in severity. It is usually caused by natural aging and hormonal changes, but other BPH causes include cell growth, inflammation, and lifestyle or neurological factors.

Some men experience mild BPH symptoms that are easily managed with lifestyle changes, such as:

For others, further medical intervention is necessary for symptom relief. Talk to your healthcare provider, as they may recommend medications, like Cialis that may offer relief.

Cialis for BPH

Cialis (generic name tadafil) was originally developed to help men living with erectile dysfunction.

However, it was FDA-approved in 2011 for BPH treatment after studies1 revealed a once-daily Cialis for BPH dosage helped relieve lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) when given over a 12-week period.

Researchers tested several Cialis daily dosage levels, including 5, 10, and 20mg. They concluded that a low dose of Cialis for BPH (a 5 mg daily) delivered maximum relief with minimal side effects.

Cialis Impact on Urinary Symptoms

Cialis works by increasing levels of cGMP (cyclic guanosine monophosphate) in the body—a key player in the bodily processes (e.g.,  blood flow to the penis and muscle relaxation in the prostate and bladder) crucial for treating BPH.

Initially developed to enhance sexual function, studies2 have demonstrated its effectiveness in improving urine flow by promoting prostate relaxation.

Additionally, Cialis reduces nighttime urination frequency, offering daily relief from symptoms.

What is the best time of day to take Cialis for BPH? Taking Cialis once daily can significantly alleviate symptom burden. While you can take this medication any time of day, you should try to take it at the same time every day.

Cialis Impact on Sexual Function

Cialis enhances the release of a key chemical during sexual arousal, increasing blood flow to the penis. This helps you achieve and sustain an erection, facilitating sexual intercourse. Its effects can last for 36 hours after taking the medication, offering greater spontaneity in sexual activity for many men.

Potential Side Effects of Cialis

For most men, Cialis causes only mild side effects, including:

However, it can also cause a sudden and potentially dangerous drop in blood pressure. Therefore, men taking nitrates or other blood-pressure-lowering medications should not take Cialis.

Quality of Life and Patient Satisfaction Post-Treatment

Cialis can improve your quality of life by relieving the painful, frustrating, and uncomfortable urinary symptoms of BPH.

However, if you cannot take Cialis for BPH, or it doesn’t provide sufficient relief, you still have non-surgical options.

At Georgia Prostate Institute, our interventional radiologists offer Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE), a minimally invasive procedure that helps alleviate lower urinary tract symptoms associated with BPH. PAE avoids large incisions and general anesthesia, reducing the risks and recovery time of traditional prostate surgery.

Are you interested in PAE treatment? Request a consultation with our prostate specialists in Georgia today to explore your options.

References:

  1. Claus G. Roehrborn, Kevin T. mcVary, Albert Elion-Mboussa, and Lars Viktrup. 2008, October 1). Tadalafil Administered One Daily for Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Secondary to Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: A Dose Finding Study. https://www.auajournals.org/article/S0022-5347(08)01715-1/fulltext

  2. Konstantinos Hatzimouratidis. (2014, August). A review of the use of tadalafil in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia in men with and without erectile dysfunction. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4054509/

Experiencing blood in your urine can be unsettling and alarming, especially when you’re already dealing with the challenges of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

We understand how concerning this can be and are here to help. At Georgia Prostate Institute, our skilled physicians and clinical staff have the expertise you need to address this issue so you can feel better fast.

Blood in urine (hematuria) sample bottle in laboratory.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a condition characterized by an enlarged prostate gland. This condition can often lead to uncomfortable symptoms involving the lower urinary tract. But can BPH cause blood in urine? Let’s explore the connection between BPH and blood in the urine and how we can help you get the proper treatment.

Understanding BPH

BPH is a condition in which your prostate gland is enlarged, but not due to cancer.

There are several BPH causes, including:

As the prostate grows, it can exert pressure on the urethra and bladder, putting pressure on both structures and impacting the way you urinate.

For most men, BPH symptoms are characterized by the way your urine flows—concerns include:

In some cases, BPH can lead to hematuria or blood in the urine. This often occurs when BPH is left untreated for some time, leading to more serious symptoms and complications.

What Is Hematuria?

Hematuria is the medical term describing the presence of blood in your urine.

There are two types of hematuria:

Typically, hematuria isn’t painful, but it can be a sign of various underlying conditions, like BPH. If you notice blood in your urine, consult a healthcare provider right away for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Hematuria as a Symptom of BPH

Can BPH cause blood in urine?

A study from the National Library of Medicine confirms that blood in the urine is a symptom of an enlarged prostate, often due to vascular changes that occur with glandular growth or even following transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). TURP is a surgical treatment option that removes some of your prostate tissue to improve urine flow.

But can BPH cause blood clots in urine?

Yes, although it‘s less common than BPH hematuria. When the prostate enlarges, the blood vessels inside can also expand. In some cases, these vessels may burst, resulting in bleeding (and blood in the urine). If this bleeding goes unchecked, it can lead to blood clots, which will then be expelled through urination.

Other Conditions and Factors Related to Hematuria BPH

Blood in your urine is often a secondary symptom of untreated BPH. While BPH-related hematuria is often not a medical emergency, it’s important to get a prompt diagnosis.

However, hematuria can also be a sign of other, more serious conditions, such as:

Certain medications can also lead to hematuria, especially those meant to prevent clotting in your blood.

Because there are many potential causes of blood in your urine, it’s crucial to see your doctor as soon as you notice signs of hematuria. An accurate diagnosis is essential for determining the underlying cause and starting appropriate treatment.

Diagnosis and Treatment

When you visit your healthcare provider for hematuria, they may perform a physical exam and several diagnostic tests to determine what’s causing it. These may include:

Once they determine the cause, they can start treatment, helping you find relief from this worrying symptom.

Managing BPH and Preventing Hematuria

If BPH is causing blood in your urine, effectively managing your condition is key to preventing further episodes.

There are many BPH treatment options, and the best choice for you will depend on the severity of your condition, along with your personal preference.

Many men find relief through lifestyle modifications or medication. However, if these methods aren’t enough and you want to avoid surgery, we encourage you to consider Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) at Georgia Prostate Institute.

Request a consultation today to take control of your health, find relief, and improve your quality of life.

References:

Claus G. Roehrborn, Kevin T. McVary, Albert Elion-Mboussa, and Lars Viktrup. 2008, October 1). Tadalafil Administered One Daily for Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Secondary to Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: A Dose Finding Study. https://www.auajournals.org/article/S0022-5347(08)01715-1/fulltext

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