What are the risks of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)?

Aug 27, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Cao Zhiqiang

Introduction

In general, if left untreated in a timely manner, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) may cause various complications to the urinary system and daily life, including worsening of urinary dysfunction, urinary tract infections, urinary retention, kidney function impairment, and reduced quality of life. It is recommended that patients with BPH pay close attention to their condition early on and manage disease progression through lifestyle modifications and regular follow-up examinations.

Generally, if left untreated, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) may cause various complications to the urinary system and daily life, including worsening of urinary dysfunction, urinary tract infections, urinary retention, kidney function impairment, and reduced quality of life. The specific complications are as follows:

1. Worsening of Urinary Dysfunction: In the early stages, BPH often presents with symptoms such as frequent urination and urgency. If the condition progresses, the enlarged prostate tissue further compresses the urethra, exacerbating difficulty in urination. Symptoms may include a thinner urine stream, interrupted flow, prolonged urination time, and in severe cases, the need to strain to void urine.

2. Urinary Tract Infections: Enlarged prostate may obstruct the smooth discharge of urine, leaving residual urine in the bladder. This residual urine provides a favorable environment for bacterial growth, increasing the risk of urinary tract infections such as cystitis and urethritis.

3. Urinary Retention: As the condition worsens, residual urine volume in the bladder gradually increases, weakening the bladder's contractile function. Eventually, this may lead to urinary retention. During acute urinary retention, patients may experience severe lower abdominal distension and pain, and are unable to urinate voluntarily, requiring urgent medical attention for catheterization.

4. Kidney Function Damage: Prolonged urinary retention increases bladder pressure, potentially causing urine to flow backward into the ureters and renal pelvis, leading to hydronephrosis. This condition can compress the kidney tissue, gradually impairing kidney function.

5. Reduced Quality of Life: Frequent urination and urgency can disrupt normal daily routines. Patients may need to use the restroom repeatedly during the day, limiting their ability to stay out for long periods or work effectively. Nighttime urination frequently interrupts sleep, leading to poor sleep quality and daytime symptoms such as fatigue, lack of concentration, and low energy levels.

Patients with BPH are advised to monitor their condition early through lifestyle adjustments and regular follow-ups. When necessary, standardized interventions should be implemented to reduce the risk of complications. It is important to avoid prolonged sitting, holding urine, and consuming spicy or irritating foods and alcohol to help maintain urinary system health.

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How much does prostate enlargement surgery cost approximately?

In general, the reference price for prostate enlargement surgery ranges from 8,000 to 30,000 yuan per procedure. Improvement is usually observed within 2 to 4 weeks after surgery, and full recovery typically takes 1 to 3 months. However, the exact cost may vary depending on factors such as the type of surgery, anesthesia method, preoperative examination items, postoperative care plan, and regional price differences. This procedure should be performed at a正规 hospital.

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What is the cause of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and what should be done?

In general, benign prostatic hyperplasia (prostate enlargement) may be caused by factors such as aging, unhealthy lifestyle habits, chronic prostatitis, bladder neck obstruction, urethral stricture, and other related conditions. It is recommended to seek timely medical consultation, identify the underlying cause, and then improve the condition under a physician's guidance through general management, medication, or surgical treatment. In daily life, maintaining a regular作息 (routine作息 should be translated as作息 here, but since it's repeated, it might be better to use "routine" or "daily schedule") routine and avoiding staying up late are advised.

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What does it mean to have prostate enlargement with calcification, and what should be done?

In general, prostate enlargement with calcification may be caused by factors such as aging, metabolic abnormalities, chronic prostatitis, prostatic fluid retention, urethral obstruction, and others. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and then improve the condition under a doctor's guidance through general management, medication, surgical treatment, and other approaches. In daily life, maintaining a regular作息 (作息 should be translated as "routine" or "daily regimen") and avoiding late nights are advised.

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What is the best treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)?

Generally speaking, there is no definitive "best treatment for prostate enlargement." Prostate enlargement may result from various factors including aging, unhealthy lifestyle habits, chronic prostatitis, bladder neck obstruction, urethral stricture, and others. It is recommended to seek timely medical consultation, identify the underlying cause, and then improve the condition under a doctor's guidance through general treatments, medication, surgery, or other appropriate methods.