What Is BPH?
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is one of the most common conditions men face as they age. About 50% of men aged 50–60, 75% of men in their seventies, and 90% of men over 80 experience some degree of prostate enlargement.
While BPH is not cancerous, it involves increased growth of the prostate gland. As it enlarges, the prostate can compress the urethra and block urine flow. This leads to lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) that often bring men to the doctor.
Normal Prostate Growth
Though BPH symptoms can be troubling, the prostate’s growth is often part of a normal cycle. The prostate grows once at puberty and again starting around age 25. This second phase continues for life. Not all men develop symptoms, but those with BPH feel discomfort from this growth.
Common Symptoms of BPH
An enlarged prostate may press on the urethra and block urine flow. This can cause:
- Feeling the bladder is still full after urinating
- Frequent need to urinate
- Weak or slow urine stream
- Starting and stopping during urination
- Trouble starting urination
- Dribbling after finishing
- Pushing or straining to urinate
- Waking at night to urinate (nocturia)
- Complete inability to urinate (seek medical help immediately)
What Causes BPH?
Prostate enlargement can be part of aging. Experts believe hormones play a role, but the details remain unclear.
- Testosterone: Needed for prostate growth, but removing it after BPH develops does not reverse the condition.
- DHT (Dihydrotestosterone): Formed from testosterone. Blocking its production can improve BPH symptoms, but the link is complex.
- Estrogen: As men age, testosterone drops and estrogen rises. Older prostates react more to estrogen than to DHT.
- SHBG (Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin): This protein increases with age and affects hormone delivery and prostate growth.
Though hormones influence BPH, the exact mechanisms are still being studied.
How Doctors Diagnose BPH
Doctors usually diagnose BPH through symptoms and an exam:
- Symptom Score: The International Prostate Symptom Score helps track symptom severity.
- Prostate Exam (DRE): A quick physical check to feel for prostate changes.
- PSA Test: A blood test for Prostate-Specific Antigen. High levels can signal a prostate issue.
- Special Tests: A urologist may run more tests if needed.
Natural Treatment Options for BPH
Natural treatments can ease BPH symptoms. Talk with a trained Naturopathic Doctor or Integrative Physician before starting any herbs or supplements.
- Saw Palmetto: May work as well as standard medication for mild to moderate BPH. It may block hormones that enlarge the prostate.
- Stinging Nettle Root: Eases inflammation and helps urine flow.
- Pygeum: Often used with Saw Palmetto and Stinging Nettle to reduce symptoms.
- Pumpkin Seeds: Their fatty acids may support prostate health.
- Beta-Sitosterol: Eases mild to moderate BPH symptoms and can help lower cholesterol, but may cause stomach upset in some people.
- DIM and I3C: Help the body process and remove extra estrogen.
Severe symptoms or urine blockage may require medication or surgery.
Leaky Gut and Prostate Health
Many people have heard of “leaky gut.” The urethra lining works much the same way. If it becomes “leaky,” toxins can irritate the prostate. This may worsen BPH or lead to prostatitis.
A healthier diet and lifestyle can strengthen these linings. If you have digestive problems and BPH symptoms, talk with an integrative healthcare provider.
