How Does Age Affect Your Risk for Developing Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia?
&srotate=0)
At Kasraeian Urology, Jacksonville, FL board-certified urologists Dr. Ahmad Kasraeian and Dr. Ali Kasraeian specialize in diagnosing and treating even the most complex prostate conditions, including benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). BPH is a common condition that typically occurs as men age, leading to an enlarged prostate and uncomfortable urinary symptoms. While the causes of BPH are multifactorial, age and hormonal changes are considered significant contributors. Take a closer look at how age increases your risk for BPH — and, more importantly — what you can do about it.
Why is BPH more common in older men?
As men get older, hormonal fluctuations — specifically involving testosterone and its byproducts — play a key role in prostate growth. Over time, shifts in hormone levels can trigger the proliferation of prostate cells, leading to an enlarged prostate gland. For many men, BPH symptoms begin around age 50 and become more pronounced as they reach their 60s and beyond.
What are the risk factors for BPH other than age?
In addition to aging, unrelated factors may increase a man's risk of developing BPH, including:
- Family history of prostate conditions
- Sedentary lifestyle and poor physical activity
- Obesity and poor dietary habits
- Genetics and hormonal imbalances
While aging cannot be controlled, addressing lifestyle factors like diet and exercise can help reduce your risk of BPH and other prostate-related symptoms and conditions.
What are the signs I have BPH?
As the prostate enlarges, it presses against the urethra — which is the tube through which urine flows from the bladder — which can obstruct urination and lead to bothersome symptoms, including:
- Frequent or urgent need to urinate
- Weak or interrupted urine flow
- Difficulty starting or stopping urination
- Incomplete bladder emptying
If left untreated, BPH can lead to complications such as urinary tract infections, bladder stones, or kidney damage. Additional symptoms of BPH can include blood in the urine and incontinence.
How is BPH treated?
At Kasraeian Urology, Dr. Kasraeian offers a full range of modern, cutting-edge BPH treatment options for maximum symptom relief and reduced risk of side effects of treating BPH. Two of our most advanced, minimally invasive treatments to address BPH and provide long-term relief from symptoms include:
UroLift®
The UroLift system is a one-time, in-office procedure that involves placing small implants within the prostate to hold the urethra open. By addressing the source of the blockage rather than just the symptoms, UroLift can restore normal urine flow without the need for ongoing medication or invasive surgery. Most patients can return home almost immediately after treatment and experience quick relief from BPH symptoms.
Aquablation® therapy
For patients looking for an innovative, precision-based approach, Dr. Ali Kasraeian performs Aquablation therapy using the AquaBeam Robotic System. This advanced technique uses robotic technology and heat-free pulses of water to precisely remove enlarged prostate tissue while minimizing damage to surrounding structures. Aquablation is minimally invasive and offers an effective treatment option with fewer side effects compared to traditional surgery.
In addition to these, Dr. Kasraeian can discuss all of your available options for BPH treatment — including lifestyle modifications — to identify a treatment or approach that most closely aligns with your needs and can give you the rapid, long-lasting BPH symptom relief you deserve.
Getting older doesn't mean you have to live with BPH symptoms. Take charge of your prostate health with BPH treatment in Jacksonville, FL
While aging is an inevitable factor for many men in the development of BPH, early detection and modern treatment options can help you manage symptoms and maintain your quality of life. At Kasraeian Urology in Jacksonville, FL, board-certified urologists Drs. Ahmad and Ali Kasraeian are committed to providing personalized care for prostate health using the latest advancements in urology. If you're experiencing urinary symptoms or want to learn more about your options for the latest BPH treatments, contact our caring team to schedule a discreet consultation with Dr. Ahmad Kasraeian or Dr. Ali Kasraeian today.