The three most common causes of an enlarged prostate are benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), inflammation (prostatitis), and prostate cancer. BPH is extremely common in men, especially as they age.

Enlarged Prostate Diagnosis and Treatment at HTX Urology

Even if your enlarged prostate isn’t cancerous, it can still cause urinary difficulties, including more frequent urges to pee, trouble starting, or pain. Regardless of why your prostate is enlarged, it’s critical to listen to the advice of a highly trained urologist.

At HTX Urology, board-certified urologic surgeons Dr. R. Robert Dhir, Dr. Hadi Akhtar, and Dr. Chris Kannady have the extensive knowledge and experience necessary to correctly diagnose your condition and put you on the right treatment plan for your needs.

What Does the Prostate Do?

The prostate is a small gland that is usually about the size of a walnut. It produces the seminal fluid that mixes with sperm cells to create semen. Additionally, the prostate is located just below the bladder and surrounds the urethra (the tube that allows urine and semen to leave the body through the penis).

When the prostate is at a standard size, bladder functionality should be unaffected, and urine can flow freely through the urethra. However, an enlarged prostate can result in increased pressure on the bladder and inhibited urinary flow.    

What Causes BPH?

While an exact reason for benign prostatic hyperplasia is unknown, the most likely causes are the hormone imbalances that occur as men age, particularly past 40 years old. In fact, more than 90% of men over age 80 have BPH. Risk factors also associated with this condition include:

  • Family history
  • Diabetes
  • Heart disease
  • Obesity
  • Aging

Why Does Prostatitis Occur?

Inflammation is the body’s response to disease or damage and is frequently associated with swelling. The prostate is no exception, as is the case with a short-term bacterial infection (acute bacterial prostatitis or an ongoing one (chronic bacterial prostatitis). 

How Is Prostate Cancer Different?

An enlarged prostate from cancer comes from the development of abnormal, unhealthy prostate cells. As these cells reproduce, the cancer risks spreading to the surrounding tissue and organs. The causes and symptoms of BPH and prostate cancer can be similar, so it’s essential to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis.

Can An Enlarged Prostate from BPH or Prostatitis Lead to Prostate Cancer?

Having BPH or prostatitis does not make you any more likely to develop prostate cancer than someone with an average-sized prostate. But keep in mind that it’s possible to have more than one of these conditions simultaneously.

Next Steps at HTX Urology

If you or your primary care physician believe that you have an enlarged prostate stemming from any of the conditions discussed above, it’s essential to speak with a urologist as soon as possible. For men near HTX Urology in Greater Houston Heights, Memorial City, Galleria, Webster, and Clear Lake, Texas, contact us today to schedule your initial consultation!