​Prostate Enlargement/Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia​

Prostate enlargement is the increase in size of the prostate gland. This is a male-specific gland located below the bladder, around the urethra (the duct by which urine is expelled out of the body).

Prostate enlargement causes difficulty in urination as its development gradually blocks the urethra, and consequent blockage of urine passage. This blockage may lead to urinary tract infections or kidney related medical conditions.

It is usually considered a benign, age-related disease, prevalent among men over fifties.

Symptoms of BPH can vary in severity and may include:

  • Frequent Urination: Especially at night (nocturia).
  • Urgency to Urinate: Sudden, strong need to urinate.
  • Weak Urine Stream: Difficulty starting or maintaining urine flow.
  • Dribbling at the End of Urination: Incomplete bladder emptying.
  • Difficulty Initiating Urination: Hesitancy or straining to urinate.
  • Feeling of Incomplete Bladder Emptying: Persistent sensation that the bladder isn't fully emptied.​

Consult our Urology experts if you experience:

  • Difficulty starting or stopping urination.
  • Frequent nighttime urination disrupting sleep.
  • A weak or interrupted urine stream.
  • Blood in the urine (hematuria).
  • Painful urination or bladder infections.​

Early diagnosis can help prevent complications such as urinary tract infections, bladder stones, and kidney damage.​

Your time with your doctor may be limited, so make sure to prepare for your visit beforehand. Here are some tips to help get you started.​

To diagnose BPH, doctors may recommend:

  • Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): To assess the size and condition of the prostate.
  • Urinalysis: To detect infections or blood in the urine.
  • Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test: To help rule out prostate cancer.
  • Bladder Ultrasound: To measure postvoid residual urine.
  • Cystoscopy: To examine the bladder and urethra for blockages.
  • Urodynamic Testing: To evaluate bladder function and urine flow.​

Treatment for BPH depends on symptom severity and may include:

  • Lifestyle Changes: Limiting caffeine and alcohol, reducing fluid intake before bedtime, and practicing bladder training.
  • Medications:
    • Alpha-blockers to relax the prostate and bladder muscles.
    • 5-alpha reductase inhibitors to shrink the prostate over time.
    • Combination therapy for better symptom control.
  • Minimally Invasive Procedures:
    • Transurethral microwave thermotherapy (TUMT).
    • Transurethral needle ablation (TUNA).
  • Surgical Options:
    • Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP).
    • Laser therapy to remove enlarged prostate tissue.​

The Aga Khan University Hospital offers various support services to help with managing or recovering from the disease or condition. These include but are not limited to nutrition, physiotherapy, rehabilitation, specialised clinics and some patient support groups. Your doctor or nurse will advise you accordingly.

The Aga Khan University Hospital offers financial assistance to those who are in need and fulfil the eligibility criteria. For further information, you can contact the Patient Welfare Department. You can find the contact number of the Patient Welfare Department in the 'Numbers' section on the website homepage.

The financial counselling staff is available during office hours, at the main PBSD (Patient Business Services Department), to answer your financial queries on treatment costs and authorise admissions on partial deposit as per hospital policies. The financial counsellor in the emergency room is open 24/7. You can find the contact number of the Patient Business Services in the 'Numbers' section on the website homepage.​

Your doctor or nurse will provide specific instructions regarding any prescribed medications. It is essential to follow their guidance carefully. Self-prescribing or altering medication without professional advice can be harmful. Inform your healthcare provider of any past adverse reactions to medications. If you experience symptoms of drug poisoning, overdose, or a severe reaction, contact the Pharmacy Services at The Aga Khan University Hospital immediately. The contact number is listed in the 'Numbers' section on the hospital's homepage.​
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The information provided on our website is for educational purposes and not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should always seek the advice of your doctor or other healthcare professional provider.