What is benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)?
Aug 27, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Cao Zhiqiang
Introduction
In general, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) may be caused by factors such as aging, hormonal changes, long-term unhealthy lifestyle habits, urethral stricture, chronic prostatitis, and chronic renal insufficiency. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and undergo symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. Daily hygiene practices should include keeping the genital area clean and dry, washing the external genitalia daily with warm water, and changing to clean cotton underwear regularly.
Generally, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) may be caused by factors such as hormonal changes associated with aging, long-term unhealthy lifestyle habits, urethral stricture, chronic prostatitis, chronic renal insufficiency, and other conditions. It is recommended to seek timely medical consultation to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment under a physician's guidance. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Hormonal Changes Associated with Aging: As men age, the ratio of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone becomes imbalanced. Dihydrotestosterone stimulates prostate tissue proliferation, and this condition commonly occurs in individuals over 50 years old. In daily life, maintaining regular作息 (作息 should be translated as "作息" in English?), avoiding staying up late, and engaging in moderate physical activities such as brisk walking or jogging can help promote pelvic blood circulation and delay the progression of hyperplasia.
2. Long-term Unhealthy Lifestyle Habits: Prolonged alcohol consumption, prolonged sitting, urine retention, or excessive intake of spicy foods can exacerbate prostate congestion, inducing or worsening hyperplasia, which manifests as frequent urination and difficulty in urination. Reducing alcohol intake, avoiding prolonged sitting (getting up for 5–10 minutes of activity every hour of sitting), and avoiding urine retention are recommended.
3. Urethral Stricture: Congenital developmental abnormalities of the urethra or acquired narrowing due to inflammation or trauma can obstruct urine outflow. Long-term pressure on the prostate may lead to compensatory prostate hyperplasia, accompanied by symptoms such as a thinner urine stream and difficulty in urination. Patients may follow medical advice to use medications such as tamsulosin hydrochloride sustained-release capsules, finasteride tablets, or doxazosin mesylate sustained-release tablets to alleviate urinary symptoms.
4. Chronic Prostatitis: Long-term infection of the prostate with pathogens such as bacteria or chlamydia, or influences from immune or neurological factors, may cause chronic inflammation. Inflammatory stimulation can lead to prostate tissue hyperplasia, manifesting as perineal pain, frequent urination, and urgency. Patients may follow medical advice to use medications such as azithromycin dispersible tablets, levofloxacin hydrochloride capsules, or Qianliekangshu capsules for treatment.
5. Chronic Renal Insufficiency: Long-term urinary retention caused by prostate hyperplasia can lead to urine reflux into the kidneys, damaging renal parenchyma and causing chronic renal insufficiency, manifested as lower limb edema, fatigue, and loss of appetite. Urinary catheterization should be performed initially to drain bladder urine, reduce pressure on the kidneys, and actively treat prostate hyperplasia to prevent further progression of the condition.
In daily life, maintaining cleanliness and dryness of the genital area, washing the external genitalia daily with warm water, and frequently changing to clean cotton underwear are recommended. Avoid using irritating cleaning products to prevent damage to local skin and mucous membranes. Maintaining a cheerful mood and avoiding anxiety can also help alleviate symptoms related to prostate hyperplasia.
