An enlarged prostate is called Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) and is a common condition affecting many men as they age. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for BPH can help you manage this condition effectively. Dr. Imran Ali specialises in minimally invasive treatments for an enlarged prostate, helping you regain your quality of life.

What is an enlarged prostate?

An enlarged prostate occurs when the normally walnut-sized prostate gland grows in size, potentially causing lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) due to the compression of the urethra (bladder outlet obstruction or BOO). While BPH is not cancerous, it can significantly impact your quality of life and overall well-being.

Risk factors for an enlarged prostate

Family history and age are known risk factors. It will affect approximately 50 percent of men between the ages of 51 and 60 and up to 90 percent of men over the age of 80.

Symptoms of an enlarged prostate

Common symptoms of BPH include:

• Difficulty starting urination
• Weak or interrupted urine flow
• Frequent urination, especially at night (nocturia)
• Urgency to urinate
• Inability to completely empty the bladder
• Dribbling at the end of urination
• Blood in the urine (haematuria)

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation.

Treatment options for an enlarged prostate

Whilst medical treatment using alpha-blockers such as Doxazosin and Tamsulosin to relax the prostate, are utilised initially, many men will develop severe symptoms which require a procedure. At our clinic, we offer a range of treatment options tailored to your specific needs:

Minimally Invasive Procedures:

The iTind implant is a temporary device designed to reshape the prostatic urethra and relieve urinary symptoms caused by BPH. This minimally invasive procedure involves inserting the device into the urethra for five to seven days. The iTind implant provides significant symptom relief with minimal recovery time and preserves sexual function.

Endoscopic Procedures:

• Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP): This tried and tested procedure involves removing part of the prostate tissue to relieve urinary symptoms.
• Laser Prostate Surgery: Uses laser energy to remove or shrink excess prostate tissue, improving urine flow and reducing symptoms. This is a particularly useful operation in men with extremely large prostates. An enlarged prostate is a common but manageable condition.