Benign prostatic hyperplasia, more commonly known as BPH or an enlarged prostate, is one of the most frequent health issues men face as they age. By age 60, more than half of men will experience some symptoms related to prostate enlargement. While many view BPH as just a nuisance (frequent urination, waking up at night, or a weaker stream), the truth is that BPH with obstruction can cause serious and lasting damage if left untreated.
At Atlanta Prostate Center, we emphasize that BPH should not be ignored. When obstruction develops, it can affect bladder health, kidney function, and overall quality of life. The good news is that modern diagnostic tools and minimally invasive treatments allow us to detect BPH early and provide effective solutions without the need for traditional surgery.
What Is BPH and How Does Obstruction Occur?
The prostate is a small gland located just below the bladder that surrounds the urethra, the tube responsible for carrying urine out of the body. As men get older, it is common for the prostate to grow larger. This enlargement is known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
When the prostate becomes too large, it can compress or squeeze the urethra, leading to a condition known as bladder outlet obstruction. This blockage makes it harder for the bladder to empty properly. Men may notice a weak urine stream, difficulty starting urination, frequent urination at night, urgency, or the constant sensation that the bladder never fully empties.
Although these symptoms may seem like minor inconveniences at first, over time, untreated obstruction can have serious health consequences.
The Dangers of Untreated BPH With Obstruction
When the bladder must work harder to push urine through a narrowed urethra, significant damage can occur. The bladder wall thickens and loses elasticity, which reduces its ability to contract and empty efficiently. This can lead to chronic urinary retention, where urine remains in the bladder, increasing the risk of infections and bladder stones. Some men may even require long-term catheter use.
Obstruction also creates backpressure that can travel to the kidneys. If the bladder cannot empty properly, urine may flow backward toward the kidneys, a condition known as vesicoureteral reflux. Over time, this pressure can impair kidney function and, in severe cases, contribute to kidney failure.
Additionally, stagnant urine in the bladder increases the risk of urinary tract infections and bladder stone formation. For this reason, BPH should never be dismissed as just a quality-of-life issue. Without treatment, obstruction can cause permanent and irreversible harm.
Minimally Invasive Treatments for BPH
In the past, men with severe BPH often required major surgery such as transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). While effective, TURP involves hospitalization, bleeding risks, and a higher chance of long-term side effects. Today, advanced minimally invasive procedures make it possible to relieve obstruction safely, with less downtime and better preservation of function.
UroLift
UroLift is a minimally invasive procedure performed in the office or outpatient setting. Small permanent implants are placed into the prostate through a scope, gently pulling enlarged tissue aside and opening the urethral channel. Patients typically experience rapid symptom relief without cutting or removing tissue. One of the biggest advantages of UroLift is that it preserves erectile and ejaculatory function. Most men do not need a catheter after the procedure and can return to normal activities quickly.
Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE)
PAE is performed by an interventional radiologist and involves inserting a tiny catheter through the groin or wrist. Using imaging guidance, the physician blocks blood flow to specific prostate arteries, causing the gland to shrink over time. PAE is especially useful for men with very large prostates or those who are not good candidates for surgery. It is performed under light sedation, requires no incisions, and provides significant symptom improvement as the prostate gradually shrinks.
Both UroLift and PAE offer effective, long-term relief from urinary obstruction while avoiding the risks of traditional surgery.
Why Early Evaluation Matters
The earlier BPH is evaluated, the more treatment options are available. Men who seek care at the first sign of urinary symptoms typically respond better to treatment and can avoid long-term complications such as bladder or kidney damage.
Quality of Life and BPH Treatment
Many men hesitate to seek treatment because they fear that interventions will harm their sexual or urinary function. However, modern therapies such as UroLift and PAE are designed to preserve quality of life while relieving symptoms. Unlike traditional surgery, these procedures focus on minimizing complications and supporting long-term urinary and sexual health.
Patients often report dramatic improvements in urinary flow, reduced nighttime urination, and better overall well-being. By treating BPH early, men can enjoy a healthier, more active lifestyle without the risks of untreated obstruction.
Key Takeaways
If BPH is left untreated, it can lead to permanent bladder dysfunction, kidney damage, infections, and bladder stones.
Minimally invasive treatments like UroLift and Prostate Artery Embolization offer effective, safe, and well-tolerated options that provide lasting relief without major surgery.
At Atlanta Prostate Center, our goal is to protect long-term bladder and kidney health while improving quality of life.
Conclusion
Benign prostatic hyperplasia is one of the most common conditions men face as they age, but it should never be ignored. With the right evaluation and treatment, BPH with obstruction can be effectively managed before it causes irreversible harm.
If you are experiencing symptoms such as a weak urine stream, frequent urination, or the feeling of incomplete emptying, don't wait. Early evaluation can make all the difference. Contact Atlanta Prostate Center today to schedule your consultation and learn more about your options.
