What effects can an enlargement of the prostate have on quality of life?
October 4, 2023 | 90,00 EUR | answered by Luisa Ehrig
Dear Dr. [Last Name],
My name is Artur Rosenblatt and I am writing to you because I have been experiencing increasing problems related to my prostate lately. I am 55 years old and up until now my health has been fairly stable. However, I have noticed recently that my urination has become more frequent and difficult. I have to go to the bathroom more often, especially at night which disturbs me greatly and affects my sleep. Additionally, I feel that my urine stream has become weaker and I am not able to control urination as well as before.
After researching online, I have learned that these symptoms could indicate an enlargement of the prostate. I am worried that this enlargement could affect my quality of life. I have read that an enlarged prostate can lead to further complications, such as urinary tract infections or even kidney problems. Additionally, the enlargement of the prostate could also have implications for my sexual health.
Therefore, I would like to learn more about the specific effects that an enlargement of the prostate can have on my quality of life and what measures I can take to treat or alleviate these problems. Are there medications, therapies, or even surgical interventions that could help me? How can I better manage my symptoms in daily life and improve my quality of life?
Thank you in advance for your help and advice.
Sincerely,
Artur Rosenblatt
Dear Mr. Rosenblatt,
Thank you for your message and your trust in my expertise as a urologist. It is understandable that you are concerned about the symptoms you have noticed in relation to your prostate. In fact, the problems you described can indicate a benign enlargement of the prostate, also known as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). This condition is common in men over 50 years old and can indeed lead to various symptoms that can affect quality of life.
An enlarged prostate can lead to the bladder not being completely emptied, resulting in increased urgency to urinate, frequent urination, and a weaker urine stream. These symptoms can be particularly bothersome at night and can lead to sleep disturbances. Furthermore, untreated BPH can lead to further complications such as urinary tract infections or even kidney problems.
There are various ways to treat or alleviate the symptoms of BPH. Conservative treatment options include medications that can improve symptoms, such as alpha-blockers or 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors. These medications can improve urine flow and reduce symptoms.
Additionally, there are various therapies that can be used for BPH. These include procedures like transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), where excess prostate tissue is removed, or minimally invasive procedures like prostate artery embolization.
It is important that you see a urologist for an examination to receive an accurate diagnosis and plan a suitable treatment. Your doctor will work with you to select the best therapy option to alleviate your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
In addition, you can also take measures to manage your symptoms in daily life. This includes avoiding irritating beverages like alcohol or caffeine, regular exercise, and training your pelvic floor muscles.
I hope this information is helpful to you and I am available for any further questions.
Sincerely,
Luisa Ehrig
