Question 1

What is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)?

Accepted Answer

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that commonly affects men as they age. It is caused by hormonal changes, particularly elevated dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which stimulates prostate cell growth. The Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test is the most important test for evaluating prostate health and distinguishing BPH from more serious conditions like prostate cancer.

Question 2

What causes Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)?

Accepted Answer

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia is caused by hormonal changes that occur naturally as men age, particularly elevated levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a potent form of testosterone. DHT stimulates prostate cells to multiply, leading to gradual enlargement of the prostate gland that can compress the urethra and cause urinary symptoms. Age-related increases in estrogen relative to testosterone may also contribute to prostate growth by making prostate cells more sensitive to DHT.

Question 3

What is the best test for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)?

Accepted Answer

The Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test is the most important blood test for evaluating BPH because it measures PSA levels that become elevated when the prostate is enlarged. The PSA Free and Total test is especially valuable for BPH because it provides a ratio that helps distinguish benign enlargement from prostate cancer—BPH typically shows a higher percentage of free PSA. Additionally, the Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) test can identify elevated hormone levels driving prostate growth, which helps guide treatment decisions, particularly for hormone-based therapies that reduce DHT production.

Question 4

When should I get tested for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience frequent urination especially at night, difficulty starting urination or weak urine stream, feeling like your bladder is never completely empty, or sudden urgent needs to urinate. Men over 50 should consider baseline PSA testing even without symptoms, as early detection allows for better monitoring and treatment options. Getting tested is particularly important if urinary symptoms interfere with your sleep, daily activities, or quality of life, or if you have a family history of prostate problems.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)?

Accepted Answer

BPH symptoms include frequent urination particularly during the night, difficulty starting to urinate or maintaining a steady stream, weak or interrupted urine flow, and feeling unable to completely empty the bladder. You might also experience sudden urgent needs to urinate, dribbling at the end of urination, or straining during urination. These symptoms develop gradually as the enlarged prostate compresses the urethra and can range from mild annoyance to significant disruption of daily life and sleep quality.

Question 6

Who is at risk for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)?

Accepted Answer

Men over age 50 are at highest risk for BPH, with about half of men in their 60s and up to 90% of men in their 80s experiencing some degree of prostate enlargement. Family history significantly increases risk, as does obesity, lack of physical activity, and metabolic conditions like diabetes and heart disease. Hormonal factors, particularly the natural age-related increase in estrogen relative to testosterone, also contribute to increased risk of developing BPH.

Question 7

What happens if Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated BPH can lead to complete inability to urinate (urinary retention), which is a medical emergency requiring immediate catheterization. Chronic bladder obstruction can cause bladder stones, repeated urinary tract infections, bladder damage with loss of muscle tone, and kidney damage from backed-up urine putting pressure on the kidneys. These complications can result in permanent bladder dysfunction, chronic kidney disease, and significantly reduced quality of life, making early diagnosis and treatment important for preventing long-term damage.

Question 8

Can Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

BPH cannot be definitively diagnosed by blood tests alone, but blood work plays a crucial role in the diagnostic process. The PSA test helps assess prostate health and rule out prostate cancer, while the PSA Free and Total ratio helps distinguish benign enlargement from malignancy. Your doctor will combine blood test results with a physical examination including digital rectal exam, symptom assessment using standardized questionnaires, and possibly imaging or urine flow studies to make a comprehensive diagnosis of BPH.

Question 9

How is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) treated?

Accepted Answer

BPH treatment ranges from watchful waiting for mild symptoms to medications that either relax prostate muscles (alpha-blockers like tamsulosin) or shrink the prostate by blocking DHT production (5-alpha reductase inhibitors like finasteride). Combination therapy using both medication types is often effective for moderate to severe symptoms. For severe cases or when medications fail, minimally invasive procedures like transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), laser therapy, or newer techniques like UroLift can provide relief by physically removing or reducing prostate tissue blocking urine flow.

Question 10

How can I prevent Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)?

Accepted Answer

While you cannot completely prevent BPH since it is largely age-related, maintaining a healthy weight through regular exercise and a balanced diet may reduce risk and symptom severity. Staying physically active, limiting caffeine and alcohol intake especially in the evening, and managing conditions like diabetes and heart disease can help maintain prostate health. Some evidence suggests that eating foods rich in zinc and selenium, reducing red meat and dairy consumption, and avoiding medications that worsen urinary symptoms like decongestants and antihistamines may also be beneficial.

Question 11

What natural remedies help with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)?

Accepted Answer

Saw palmetto extract is the most studied natural remedy for BPH, with some evidence suggesting it may reduce urinary symptoms, though results are mixed. Beta-sitosterol, pygeum, and stinging nettle root are other herbal supplements that some men find helpful for reducing symptoms. Pelvic floor exercises, double voiding (urinating, waiting, then trying again), and limiting fluids before bedtime can improve symptom management. However, always discuss natural remedies with your doctor before use, as they can interact with medications and should not replace medical evaluation and treatment for moderate to severe symptoms.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Enlarged Prostate (BPH) Blood Test

What is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)?

What causes Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)?

What is the best test for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)?

When should I get tested for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)?

References

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