What Are the Symptoms of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)?

Mar 26, 2021 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Mingchuan
Introduction
1. Frequent urination—due to the close anatomical and functional relationship between the male prostate and the urinary system. 2. Urinary urgency—present in approximately 50%–80% of patients, often accompanied by urge incontinence. 3. Hematuria—caused by capillary congestion and small-vessel dilation on the surface of the prostate gland. 4. Urinary obstruction—results in mechanical obstruction of the urinary tract, leading to a narrowed urine stream.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), also known as prostate enlargement, is primarily characterized by bladder irritative symptoms and obstructive urinary symptoms caused by the enlarged prostate compressing the urethra. Bladder irritative symptoms include urinary frequency, urgency, and nocturia, while obstructive symptoms manifest as difficulty initiating urination, weak urine stream, and incomplete bladder emptying. So, what are the clinical manifestations of BPH? The following section addresses this question.

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What Are the Clinical Manifestations of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia?

1. Urinary Frequency

This is often an early sign of BPH. Because the male prostate is closely associated with urinary system function, any prostate abnormality may lead to urinary dysfunction. Typical manifestations include increased voiding frequency and shortened intervals between urinations—progressing from two nocturnal voids per night to four or five, or even more.

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2. Urinary Urgency

Approximately 50%–80% of patients experience urinary urgency or urge incontinence. Following detrusor muscle decompensation, residual urine volume increases and effective bladder capacity decreases, further exacerbating urinary frequency. Moreover, severe BPH may cause hydronephrosis and renal insufficiency, leading to systemic symptoms such as anorexia, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and anemia.

3. Hematuria

Hematuria results from congestion and dilation of capillaries on the surface of the prostate gland, coupled with mechanical traction exerted by the enlarged gland. During bladder contraction, microscopic or gross hematuria may occur; occasionally, massive hemorrhage may develop. This may also precipitate spontaneous micturition. Additionally, hematuria may arise when concurrent bladder tumors are present.

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4. Urinary Obstruction

Prostate enlargement causes mechanical obstruction of the urethra, resulting in a narrowed urinary stream and impaired urine flow. If this obstruction leads to urinary calculi or bladder stones, it may cause interrupted urination and dysuria. Chronic urinary obstruction increases intra-abdominal pressure, potentially contributing to inguinal hernia or rectal prolapse.

The above outlines the common clinical manifestations of benign prostatic hyperplasia. We hope this information proves helpful.

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