The prostate is a muscular gland in the reproductive system of men. In some people, this organ would become enlarged, a condition also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia. It happens when the cells of this gland start to grow and multiply. These components cause the part to swell, thus squeezing the urethra and restricting the flow of urine. In this guide, we take a look at the diagnosis and treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia.
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Diagnosis
Physical Examination
The first step to diagnose benign prostatic hyperplasia is a physical exam. During this procedure, your doctor needs to check the rectal area for any signs of infection or inflammation. He or she will insert a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to assess the consistency and size of your prostate. This should be a harmless process without bleeding. If the results indicate an asymmetric, lumpy, or enlarged prostate, further tests can be carried out to verify and look for possible causes. [1]