Signs and Symptoms
BPH symptoms
stem from an obstruction of the urethra and gradual loss of bladder function.
The most common problems involve changes with urination (NIDDK, 2006). However,
these symptoms may not be apparent immediately, because the powerful bladder
muscle compensates for the narrowed urethra by making more vigorous
contractions and forcing urine through the prostate. However, over time, this
extra effort takes its toll on the bladder, making it less efficient. This is
when a man may notice a decreased flow rate and obstructive symptoms. The
bladder, after months of heavy duty, also becomes a victim of its own powerful
muscles; the muscle bound bladder wall thickens and loses its elasticity. With
all that extra muscle, the bladder can't hold as much as it used to; it becomes
unstable and overly reactive (Walsh, 2007).
As the prostate squeezes the urethra, it impedes urine flow. This may manifest itself as frequent urination, needing to go to the bathroom several times an hour; hesitancy, or having to wait for the urinary stream to start; urgency, or the sudden sensation of needing to urinate, which may culminate in involuntary urine leakage before reaching the bathroom; starting and stopping during urination; and a constant feeling of fullness in the bladder (Walsh, 2007). Other symptoms could include hematuria and urinary retention (Swierzewski, 1998).
Treatment
Comments (0):