If you’re living with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), you may discover it’s difficult to separate the truth from pure myth. This can be very frustrating when you’re attempting to make a decision about how to seek treatment and what your next steps should be. We’re going to take a look at some of the most common BPH myths and determine if they’re based on facts or complete fabrications.

Breaking Down The Truth About Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

• BPH is tied to occurrences of prostate cancer: Total myth. Its initial symptoms are close to those of prostate cancer, but BPH itself is a non-cancerous condition.
• Larger prostates produce worse symptoms: While this may seem logical, it doesn’t bear out. The severity of BPH symptoms is tied to many factors. Among them is the size of the prostate, but the way in which it swelled is also relevant. In some cases, significant swelling can result in minimal symptoms, while minor swelling causes serious complications.
• Only older men get BPH: While it is definitely significantly more common in older patients, it can happen at any age. Those who are beyond age 50 experience BPH at a much higher rate than those who are younger. However, it’s important to be clear that age is a risk factor, not a demarcation line.
• BPH can create additional prostate problems: Current research does not support suggestions that BPH creates additional problems. It is merely the result of excessive testosterone production as men age.
• Symptoms of BPH cannot be relieved: There are numerous treatments and lifestyle changes that can have a positive effect on BPH symptoms. These include reducing fat intake, lowering caffeine consumption, and changing medications that increase symptoms under a doctor’s guidance.
• BPH requires medical treatment: BPH doesn’t always produce symptoms in those experiencing it. Without the presence of symptoms, there’s no need to pursue treatment. However, if you’re experiencing symptoms such as a weak urine stream or frequent urination, speak to your specialist.
• Surgical treatments may prevent prostate cancer: There is a common misconception that surgical treatment of BPH can reduce the risk of prostate cancer. There is no evidence supporting this claim. Surgical procedures generally only damage or remove the inner part of the prostate. The outer portion is where prostate cancer generally develops. So surgical solutions have no impact on the risk.
• Sexual habits influence the potential for developing BPH: Neither infrequent sexual activity nor frequent sexual activity has shown any impact on the rate of BPH development.

Consult With A Specialist To Get the Correct Information

Getting the proper information about conditions like BPH is essential to making informed decisions. If you’re concerned you may be living with symptoms of BPH and want to learn more, contact a specialist. They’ll help you determine if what you’re experiencing is the result of an enlarged prostate. They’ll then go over the treatment options with you and ensure you have all the correct information to make your choice. Don’t rely on internet searches and outside sources; speak to your specialist today.