Causes

The prostate surrounds the urethra just below the bladder. As it enlarges, it can compress the urethra and block urine flow. The exact cause of this growth is unclear but is believed to be related to hormonal changes with age.

Risk factors

• Age (most common after 40)
• Family history of prostate problems
• Obesity and sedentary lifestyle
• Diabetes and heart disease

Diagnosis

Diagnosis begins with a thorough history and physical exam, including a digital rectal exam (DRE) to assess prostate size and shape.

Key assessments include:

• Urinalysis and culture to check for infection
• Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test to rule out cancer
• Post-void residual test to measure how much urine remains after urination
• Ultrasound or cystoscopy for complex cases

Other conditions (like bladder stones, infections, or neurogenic bladder) can mimic BPH, so accurate diagnosis is essential.

Prevention

Watchful waiting is often recommended for mild symptoms. Treatment becomes necessary if symptoms affect daily life or lead to complications. Medical treatments can help relax prostate muscles to ease urine flow or shrink prostate by affecting hormone levels.

Taking supplements and making lifestyle changes to boost heart and prostate health are the best strategies to lower the risk of having BPH. Prostate growth may be slowed with at least 30 minutes of exercise every day. It's also critical to keep blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol within normal ranges.

Treatment Options

Treatment for BPH depends on how severe your symptoms are, how much they affect your daily life, and whether there are any complications such as bladder damage or kidney problems. Not all men with BPH need treatment. Some can be managed with regular monitoring and lifestyle changes.

Treatments include minimally invasive procedures as well as surgery. The former are typically outpatient procedures with quicker recovery times than surgery. They're best for moderate symptoms or when medications are not effective Surgery is typically reserved for men with severe symptoms, complications, or when other treatments fail. It involves removing or reducing the part of the prostate that’s blocking urine flow.

PAE has a quick recovery time, with most men returning to normal activities in 1 – 2 days. After surgery, most men recover within a few days to a week, though full symptom improvement may take a few weeks.

The aim of treatment is to relieve symptoms, prevent complications like urinary retention or kidney damage, and improve quality of life. The most appropriate option is chosen depending on prostate size, symptoms, age, overall health, and personal preferences.

How does PAE work at RIVEA?

PAE is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure performed by our Interventional Radiologist.

A tiny catheter is inserted through a blood vessel in your wrist or groin. Using X-ray guidance, the arteries supplying blood to your prostate are gently blocked, causing the gland to shrink over time. This reduces pressure on the urinary tract and improves symptoms without cuts, stitches, or a hospital stay.
Learn more about Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE)

Why RIVEA

The PAE procedure requires significant specialized training to master the technique. RIVEA stands as Hyderabad's premier center for Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE). Our center features the advanced imaging equipment essential for PAE's precision. Our interventional radiologist Dr. Arjun Reddy made history as the first physician to perform PAE in Hyderabad. RIVEA's team delivers exceptional outcomes for BPH patients seeking minimally invasive treatment options performed by experts who have mastered this sophisticated technique.

BPH is a common condition that can often be managed effectively. Early intervention helps prevent complications like urinary retention, bladder stones, or kidney damage. Regular check-ups and a tailored treatment plan can significantly improve symptoms and quality of life.