Prostate enlargement, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH, BPE), is one of the most common urological conditions affecting men over the age of 50. This condition involves the gradual enlargement of the prostate, which can lead to mechanical pressure on the urethra. As a result, patients experience various lower urinary tract symptoms – often bothersome and significantly impacting quality of life.

Causes of Prostate Enlargement:

Although the exact mechanism behind prostate adenoma formation is not fully understood, several risk factors have been identified:

• Age – the condition develops mainly after the age of 50.
• Hormonal changes – a decrease in testosterone and an increase in dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels.
• Genetic predisposition – higher risk among men whose close relatives had BPH.
• Lifestyle – lack of physical activity, unhealthy diet, obesity.

Symptoms of Prostate Enlargement:

• Difficulty starting urination – despite the urge, initiating urination is problematic.
• Weak and intermittent urine stream – makes it difficult to fully empty the bladder.
• Frequent urination during the day and night (nocturia) – frequent need to urinate, especially at night.
• Sensation of incomplete bladder emptying – even after urinating, the patient feels the bladder is not fully emptied.
• Sudden and urgent need to urinate – occurring unexpectedly and often difficult to control, sometimes leading to incontinence.

Diagnosis of Prostate Enlargement at Mediss Medical Gdańsk:

1. Urological consultation – thorough medical interview, symptom assessment, and medical history review.
2. Digital rectal examination (DRE) – a manual examination of the prostate through the rectum to assess its size and consistency.
3. PSA blood test – measurement of prostate-specific antigen levels (elevated levels may indicate BPH or other prostate issues).
4. Prostate ultrasound – abdominal or transrectal ultrasound allows detailed assessment of prostate structure and size.
5. Uroflowmetry – a non-invasive test that measures the strength and volume of the urine stream.

Treatment of Prostate Enlargement

Treatment depends on the severity of the disease, intensity of symptoms, and the overall health of the patient.

1. Lifestyle Modifications:

• Reducing caffeine and alcohol intake.
• Avoiding fluids before bedtime.
• Regular physical activity.
• Healthy diet rich in vegetables and fiber.

2. Pharmacotherapy:

• Alpha-blockers – relax the muscles of the bladder neck and prostate, making it easier to urinate.
• 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors – reduce the volume of the prostate by inhibiting the conversion of testosterone to DHT.

3. Surgical and Minimally Invasive Procedures (note: surgical procedures are not performed on-site):

• TURP (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate) – a classic endoscopic procedure that removes excess tissue through the urethra.
• Laser prostate ablation – a modern method that removes excess prostate tissue using laser energy.
• Microwave or ultrasound thermotherapy – minimally invasive techniques that reduce prostate volume using heat.

Why Choose Mediss Medical in Gdańsk?

At our clinic, we provide comprehensive urological care for men with prostate-related issues. Using modern diagnostic and treatment methods, we tailor therapy to each patient’s individual needs. Our experienced urologist in Gdańsk will help you regain comfort and eliminate troublesome symptoms caused by prostate enlargement. Remember – timely diagnosis and effective treatment are key to good health and well-being.