Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

What is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)?

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition in men where the prostate gland enlarges and presses against the urethra, causing urinary issues. While BPH is not cancerous, it can significantly impact quality of life, leading to frequent bathroom trips, disrupted sleep and discomfort. The good news? Effective treatments are available to help you regain control and live more comfortably.

Risk Factors

BPH is a natural part of aging, but certain factors increase the likelihood of developing the condition:

• Age: Affects 50% of men over 50 and up to 80% of men over 70.
• Family History: A genetic predisposition may increase risk.
• Lifestyle: Obesity, lack of physical activity and poor diet may contribute.
• Medical Conditions: Diabetes and heart disease have been linked to BPH.

Symptoms

BPH symptoms can range from mild to severe and often worsen over time. Common symptoms include:

• Frequent urination, especially at night
• Weak or interrupted urine flow
• Difficulty starting or stopping urination
• Feeling like the bladder is never fully empty
• Sudden urges to urinate

Left untreated, BPH can lead to more serious complications, including urinary tract infections or bladder damage.

Treatment

At AtlantiCare, we offer a full range of BPH treatment options tailored to your needs, including:

• Medication Therapy – Helps relax the prostate and improve urine flow.
• Minimally Invasive Procedures:
  • Aquablation® Therapy: A state-of-the-art robotic waterjet treatment that removes excess prostate tissue with precision, reducing side effects and preserving sexual function. AtlantiCare is the only provider in Southeastern New Jersey to offer this advanced solution.
  • UroLift® System: A minimally invasive procedure that lifts the prostate out of the way, improving urine flow.
• Laser Therapy & Traditional Surgery: For severe cases requiring more advanced intervention.

Most commercial insurance plans and Medicare cover Aquablation and UroLift therapy. Schedule a consultation to explore your options.

Prevention

While BPH is largely age-related, adopting a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the severity of symptoms:

• Stay active – Regular exercise supports prostate health.
• Eat a balanced diet – Reduce red meat and processed foods while increasing fruits and vegetables.
• Limit caffeine and alcohol – These can irritate the bladder.
• Stay hydrated – But avoid excessive fluid intake before bedtime.
• Manage underlying health conditions – Keeping diabetes and heart disease in check may reduce risk.