Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia in Panama

Benign prostatic hyperplasia in Panama is nonmalignant (noncancerous)enlargement of the prostate gland, a common occurrence in older men. It is also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia and abbreviated as BPH.

When does benign prostatic hyperplasia start?

BPH generally begins in a man's 30s, evolves slowly, and most commonly only causes symptoms after 50.

What happens in BPH? What are symptoms of BPH in Panama?

In BPH, the prostate gland grows in size. It may compress the urethra which courses through the center of the prostate. This can impede the flow of urine from the bladder through the urethra to the outside. It can cause urine to back up in the bladder (retention) leading to the need to urinate frequently during the day and night.

Other common symptoms include a slow flow of urine, the need to urinate urgently and difficulty starting the urinary stream. More serious problems include urinary tract infections and complete blockage of the urethra, which may be a medical emergency and can lead injury to the kidneys.

How common is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia in Panama? Are there any risk factors?

BPH is extremely common. Half of all men over 50 develop symptoms of BPH, but only 10% need medical or surgical intervention.

Is BPH a type of cancer?

No. BPH is completely benign. It is not a precursor (a forerunner) to prostate cancer.

Is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia in Panama always treated?

No. Treatment of BPH is usually reserved for men with significant symptoms.

How is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia in Panama treated?

Watchful waiting is often chosen by men who are not bothered by symptoms of BPH. They have no treatment but get regular checkups and wait to see whether or not the condition gets worse.

Medical treatment of BPH is usually reserved for men who have significant symptoms. The available drugs include Alpha blockers which  relax the smooth muscles of the prostate, and the bladder neck, which helps to relieve urinary obstruction caused by an enlarged prostate in BPH

Surgery or office procedures

• Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP).
• Laser procedures.
• Microwave therapy.