Although prostate enlargement is a common condition, it can have uncomfortable and stressful side-effects. Many men experience an enlarged prostate as they age and, for some, it will have a limited impact on their lifestyle.

For many men, however, an enlarged prostate can result in problems passing urine. With symptoms including hesitancy, dribbling, poor stream and poor emptying, it’s important that these problems are resolved as quickly as possible.

Known as benign prostatic hyperplasia, an enlarged prostate can place additional pressure on the urethra, resulting in bladder-related symptoms. While some men find the effects of an enlarged prostate embarrassing, it’s an extremely common problem and there are medical solutions available.

Confirming your diagnosis

Before treatment can be offered, a private urologist will run a range of tests to confirm your diagnosis. As well as carrying out an ultrasound and a flow test, to determine the strength of your urine output, a PSA test and cystoscopy may be performed.

A PSA test simply records the amount of prostate-specific antigen in your blood and helps doctors to confirm whether your prostate is enlarged. Similarly, a cystoscopy is used to examine the urethra and bladder so that a comprehensive and accurate diagnosis can be delivered.

What treatment is available?

In some cases, men can reduce the side effects associated with an enlarged prostate without surgical intervention. When visiting a private urology clinic, your doctor will advise whether lifestyle changes could have a beneficial impact on your symptoms or whether further treatment is appropriate.

A Bipolar TURP, for example, can be used remove small chips from the prostate, thus reducing the size of the prostate and the pressure it places on the urethra. Alternatively, prostatic urethral lift, or Urolift surgery, can be performed. This involves using implants to separate the lobes of the prostate, thus reducing the associated pressure and minimising symptoms. With most patients experiencing no sexual side effects, this is a popular form of treatment.

With prostate enucleation and vaporisation also available, there are a range of surgical treatment options when it comes to dealing with an enlarged prostate. As with any medical condition, however, it’s important to seek help from an experienced practitioner. To find out more about treating an enlarged prostate and the associated symptoms, get in touch and we’ll be happy to answer any questions you might have.