Complaints for prostate enlargement Almost every man is affected during the life course

Prostate enlargement: These are the typical complaints

About every second man over the age of 50 and almost anyone over the age of 80 has a benign prostate enlargement. As a rule, enlargement begins at the age of 30 years. This is a completely natural process. This is indicated by the Uro-GmbH Nordrhein, an association of established urologists. However, only one in five sufferers must undergo treatment, but invariably everyone should be examined once a year.

In contrast to prostate cancer, which occurs predominantly in the outer area of ​​the prostate, enlargement mainly develops inside. Anatomically speaking, the prostate gland is in close proximity to the urethra, which can lead to constrictions and thus to different degrees of urinary symptoms. "Those affected often notice that the stream of urine is weakening, starting urine problems occur, and several attempts are needed to empty the bladder completely," urologist Dr. Reinhold Schaefer of the Uro-GmbH North Rhine.

"Further signs of an enlargement are increased pressure during urination, more frequent toilet courses or dripping urine." As the enlargement progresses, more and more residual urine formation occurs. Remains urine in the bladder, in turn settle easily germs and the risk of urinary tract infections and kidney stones increases. In the worst case, the prostate enlarges so much that it comes to the urine storm, which can also damage kidneys.

It is only important to go to a specialist to differentiate the benign disease from a possible prostate cancer. In addition to a detailed history, the doctor also performs a physical examination of the rectum to diagnose an enlarged prostate gland.

Accompanying urine and blood tests indicate signs of kidney function and possible bacterial infections. Urinary jet measurements, ultrasound examinations and the determination of the PSA value are further important components. If patients find the disturbances caused by prostate enlargement only slightly disturbing, an annual check is sufficient. If the quality of life is significantly reduced, the urologist initiates a therapy. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, other illnesses and patient wishes, drug or surgical therapies are used. Often, however, an enlarged prostate presents no problems. (sb, pm)