What Is BPH?
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a condition that becomes more common as men age. The prostate surrounds part of the urethra—which carries urine and semen—and is normally about the size of a walnut. It doubles in size during adolescence and begins to grow again around age 25, continuing throughout adulthood.
As the prostate enlarges, it can squeeze the urethra and lead to urinary issues. About 50% of men have an enlarged prostate by age 50, and nearly 90% by age 80.
Risk Factors Affecting BPH
- Age: The most common factor contributing to prostate enlargement.
- Family history: Men with fathers or brothers who have BPH face a higher risk.
- Race: White and Black men are more likely to experience BPH than Asian men.
When to See a Doctor About BPH in Covington
Common symptoms include:
- Dribbling after urinating
- Urinating more than 8 times per day
- Difficulty starting or stopping urination
- Waking up at night to urinate
- Weak urinary stream
Seek immediate care from board‑certified urologists at Louisiana Healthcare Associates if you experience:
- Loss of bladder control
- Pain or burning during urination
- Blood in the urine
No Time Like the Present
You can’t change your age or genetics, but you can take steps to manage prostate health right now. Lifestyle changes can significantly improve symptoms.
Prostate Diet & Lifestyle Tips
- Exercise regularly: Obesity increases the risk of developing BPH.
- Limit red meat and fatty foods: Plant proteins are associated with lower prostate disease incidence.
- Increase natural zinc sources: Sesame seeds, almonds, and pumpkin seeds are great options.
- Add salmon to your routine: Salmon provides omega‑3 fatty acids beneficial for prostate health.
- Eat more vegetables: Tomatoes, green peppers, avocados, broccoli, and kale support prostate health.
- Avoid antihistamines and decongestants: These may worsen BPH symptoms.
- Reduce caffeine and alcohol: Both can aggravate urinary issues.
- Manage stress: High stress levels can worsen symptoms.
You may not be able to prevent BPH completely, but with consistent lifestyle changes, symptoms can be managed effectively. Contact our board‑certified urologists if you are experiencing symptoms or want to explore treatment options.