In general, most men should realize prostate enlargement is a normal part of aging, and some mild symptoms are expected as we advance in age. There are two main issues to think about when it comes to men’s health and this process. The first issue is the development of prostate cancer. Generally, you can be screened based on a blood test called a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in conjunction with a consultation with your primary care physician based on your medical history and age. The second issue is Benign Prostate Enlargement (BPH), which is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate.

What are the causes of an enlarged prostate (BPH), and what are the symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate?
There are a variety of causes for BPH, but at the end of the day, most people will develop BPH as a normal part of aging. The prostate is a gland immediately below the bladder, and when this enlarges, such as in BPH, there will be symptoms related to urination. Difficulty starting urination, emptying, frequent urination at night, decreased force of stream, dribbling, and a need to strain during urination are common symptoms that develop from prostate enlargement and its effects on the flow of urine.

Will all men, at some point in their life, develop an enlarged prostate? Is this a life-threatening concern?
The majority of men will develop prostate enlargement if they live long enough. If you are over the age of 60, you likely have a component of BPH. It is not a life-threatening disease.

What treatments are available for enlarged prostate?
Initial treatments include medication if symptoms are bothersome. For patients who are not controlled with medication, treatments include surgical intervention or a nonsurgical procedure called Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE).

What is the procedure like?
It is a safe and effective procedure, and most patients are satisfied with their experience. The procedure is outpatient, with the patients completely asleep during the intervention, which lasts between one to three hours.

Occasionally, patients will develop bladder cramps for a few days after the procedure, but most patients have little to no symptoms.

Does insurance cover it?
All major insurance providers cover the procedure.

By John D. Braun, M.D.