Skyline Urology
Urologists located in Torrance, CA
Also known as an enlarged prostate, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition for men as they grow older. For many men, the size of the prostate can cause pain, discomfort, and loss of bladder control. The board-certified urology experts at Skyline Urology, Royal S. Park, MD, and Alec S. Koo, MD, provide patient-centered treatment for BPH. To speak with a urology specialist about your condition, book an appointment at the office located in Torrance, California, by phone or online today.
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Q & A
What is BPH?
Benign prostatic hyperplasia refers to the pain and discomfort caused by prostate enlargement. Prostate growth is a natural part of aging. In some men, the increasing size of the prostate gland can cause pain, discomfort, and impair urinary functions.
What are the symptoms of BPH?
Symptoms of BPH typically worsen over time as the prostate continues to grow. Symptoms include:
- Frequent or urgent urination
- Increased nighttime urination
- Dribbling
- Weak stream
In some cases, the condition stabilizes and symptoms clear up on their own. However, if you experience persistent symptoms, it’s important to discuss your condition with the Skyline Urology team.
How is BPH diagnosed?
Your doctor begins your diagnosis by discussing your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam may be required to evaluate your overall health. There are a number of tests that can confirm BPH, including:
Digital rectal exam
The rectal exam allows your doctor to check for prostate enlargement as well as any abnormalities.
Urine Test
The urine test is used to rule out infections and similar conditions as the cause of your enlarged prostate.
A prostate-specific antigen blood test
The prostate-specific antigen test is a blood test that checks the levels of prostate-specific antigen in the blood. Increased levels of prostate-specific antigen are a sign of BPH.
Depending on the complexity of your condition, your doctor might also perform a cystoscopy to take a look inside your urethra and bladder or a prostate biopsy to rule out prostate cancer.
How is BPH treated?
Treatment for your condition depends on your age, overall health, prostate size, and severity of symptoms. Treatment methods for BPH include medications, minimally invasive surgery, and laser therapy.
If your symptoms are tolerable, your doctor might recommend holding off on treatment and monitor your condition instead. At Skyline Urology, Dr. Park and Dr. Koo specialize in nonsurgical and minimally invasive approaches to benign prostatic hyperplasia, including Urolift and Rezum.
Is BPH a sign of prostate cancer?
Although BPH is noncancerous, the symptoms of BPH and prostate cancer are similar. Benign prostatic hyperplasia is not cancer and does not increase your risk for cancer.
If you’re experiencing symptoms, speaking with the Skyline Urology team can help you rule out prostate cancer.
To speak with a urology expert about your symptoms, book an appointment at Skyline Urology by phone or online today.
