What is BPH?
BPH and Bladder Health
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Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a condition in which the prostate is enlarged. It is a common condition in men over 45 years of age and may cause bothersome urinary symptoms such as getting up multiple times during the night to urinate, a weak stream, or urgency. This condition may significantly reduce quality of life.1,2
It’s common for men to believe that symptoms of enlarged prostate are a normal and inevitable part of the aging process and are simply meant to be accepted and tolerated. Many men wait a long time to get their symptoms evaluated by a doctor. However, if left untreated, BPH may lead to serious complications such as permanent bladder damage and even kidney failure.2,3
Here is a simple graphic showing what happens as the prostate continues to enlarge as BPH progresses. As the prostate gland enlarges, the urethra is constricted. The bladder has to work harder to push the urine out. Over time, the bladder muscle becomes thick and stiff, and loses its ability to effectively push urine out.
Do BPH medications help long-term bladder health?
While medications may partially relieve and slow the progression of symptoms, BPH drugs do not address prostate obstruction or bladder deterioration.2
What happens if BPH goes untreated for too long?
Changes to the bladder may become irreversible and result in permanent bladder damage, which can lead to the need for a permanent bladder catheter. A large, long-term study conducted by the U.S. Veteran’s Affairs showed that Watchful Waiting can come with a cost by increasing the risk of irreversible bladder damage.4
Earlier intervention treatments, such as minimally invasive BPH procedures, may preserve bladder health and improve your quality of life.2
How is bladder health assessed?
Bladder health is assessed during a diagnostic cystoscopy, which is performed by a urologist in their office. It uses a thin, lighted tube to look directly inside your bladder, prostate, and urethra to evaluate the anatomy.5 This brief procedure typically takes less than 5 minutes.6
Cystoscopy enables your urologist to view your anatomy in order to:
- Assess bladder health.
- Diagnose an enlarged prostate.
- Assess which BPH procedure may be most appropriate for you.
- Rule out other bladder conditions.
Based on a recent study7:
- 63% of men surveyed had never heard of a cystoscopy
- 84% of men surveyed were willing to have a cystoscopy done after understanding how it could help determine the cause of their symptoms and the best treatment options.
The impact of BPH on your bladder health should not be ignored. To learn about the importance of your bladder health, how it affects your BPH, and treatment options, click here.
1. BPH Patient Guide – Urology Care Foundation
2. AUA BPH Guidelines 2018, amended 2020
3. Tubaro et al. 2003 Drugs Aging
4. Flanigan R. et al., J. Urology 1998
5. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diagnostic-tests/cystoscopy-ureteroscopy
6. Cystoscopy. https://www.brighamandwomens.org/obgyn/urogynecology/forms-and-education-materials/cystoscopy-patient-instructions
7. NeoTract online study of patient awareness and attitudes in May 2020, N=500; men age 50+ with BPH symptoms; either watchful waiting or on BPH medication; no prior BPH
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