Not knowing about something until it becomes a problem can catch many people by surprise. Imagine a man turning 50, going to the doctor for urinary problems (urges, frequency, voiding issues, etc.) and being diagnosed with BPH. BPH is not a widespread topic of conversation, so it's not surprising many people don't know it by its name. Benign prostatic hyperplasia is the enlargement of the prostate due to age. Although most men will experience growth of the prostate with age, it gets diagnosed when unpleasant symptoms arise.
These symptoms can interfere with daily life: outings and travel may be less enjoyable when more time is spent looking for the bathroom than for the next sightseeing spot. You may wake up tired from waking up many times a night only to struggle to empty your bladder properly. BPH is not only a prostate issue, it is a LUTS issue (lower urinary tract symptoms) which can affect the bladder, kidneys, and your sense of well being due to potentially experiencing a disrupted quality of life.
This is why Movember is a great time to spread awareness of issues that affect men and show our support. There are older gentlemen who, although they don't know they have BPH, might be struggling with these symptoms. Encouraging a visit to the doctor, seeing a support group, talking about how you're managing your own BPH symptoms, all these things can help empower the knowledge and voice of men with BPH. These men might feel frustrated from their condition, but how can we help if we don't educate ourselves on BPH?
Even if you think you're too young to be affected by BPH, starting healthy habits when you're young can help slow the progression and reduce the aggravation of symptoms of BPH.
These symptoms can interfere with daily life: outings and travel may be less enjoyable when more time is spent looking for the bathroom than for the next sightseeing spot. You may wake up tired from waking up many times a night only to struggle to empty your bladder properly. BPH is not only a prostate issue, it is a LUTS issue (lower urinary tract symptoms) which can affect the bladder, kidneys, and your sense of well being due to potentially experiencing a disrupted quality of life.
This is why Movember is a great time to spread awareness of issues that affect men and show our support. There are older gentlemen who, although they don't know they have BPH, might be struggling with these symptoms. Encouraging a visit to the doctor, seeing a support group, talking about how you're managing your own BPH symptoms, all these things can help empower the knowledge and voice of men with BPH. These men might feel frustrated from their condition, but how can we help if we don't educate ourselves on BPH?
Even if you think you're too young to be affected by BPH, starting healthy habits when you're young can help slow the progression and reduce the aggravation of symptoms of BPH.
