Question 1

What is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia?

Accepted Answer

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that commonly affects men as they age. It is caused by hormonal changes, particularly an increase in dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels, which stimulate prostate cell growth. The Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Ultrasensitive test is the most important blood test for monitoring prostate health and distinguishing BPH from other prostate conditions.

Question 2

What causes Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia?

Accepted Answer

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia is caused by hormonal changes that occur naturally as men age, particularly an increase in dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a potent form of testosterone. DHT stimulates prostate cell growth, leading to gradual enlargement of the prostate gland that can compress the urethra and restrict urine flow. Age-related shifts in the balance between testosterone and estrogen also contribute to prostate tissue growth, making BPH extremely common in men over 50.

Question 3

What is the best test for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia?

Accepted Answer

The Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Ultrasensitive test is the most important blood test for BPH because it detects elevated levels of PSA, a protein produced by prostate cells that increases with prostate enlargement. While BPH is primarily diagnosed through physical examination and symptom assessment, the PSA test plays a critical role in monitoring prostate health, tracking disease progression, and helping healthcare providers differentiate between benign enlargement and more serious conditions like prostate cancer. Elevated PSA levels in combination with urinary symptoms provide valuable information for comprehensive prostate health assessment and treatment planning.

Question 4

When should I get tested for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you are experiencing frequent urination, especially at night, difficulty starting urination, a weak urine stream, or the feeling that your bladder is not completely empty. Testing is also important if you are over 50 and have a family history of prostate problems, or if you notice sudden changes in urinary habits or blood in your urine. Early detection through PSA testing helps monitor prostate health and prevents complications like urinary retention or kidney problems.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia?

Accepted Answer

BPH symptoms include frequent urination, particularly at night (nocturia), difficulty starting or stopping urination, a weak or interrupted urine stream, and the sensation of incomplete bladder emptying. Some men experience urgency, straining during urination, dribbling at the end of urination, or urinary incontinence. These symptoms occur because the enlarged prostate compresses the urethra, restricting urine flow from the bladder. Symptom severity varies widely, and some men with enlarged prostates experience minimal symptoms while others face significant urinary difficulties.

Question 6

Who is at risk for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia?

Accepted Answer

Men over 50 are at highest risk for BPH, with the condition affecting about 50% of men in their 60s and up to 90% of men over 80. Risk factors include family history of BPH, obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and lack of physical activity. African American men and men with relatives who have had BPH or prostate cancer face increased risk. Hormonal factors and aging are the primary drivers, making BPH almost inevitable for men who live long enough.

Question 7

What happens if Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated BPH can lead to serious complications including complete urinary retention, which requires emergency catheterization, and repeated urinary tract infections due to incomplete bladder emptying. Chronic urinary retention can cause bladder damage, bladder stones, and kidney damage from backed-up urine creating pressure on the kidneys. Blood in the urine (hematuria) may occur from straining, and prolonged bladder overdistension can lead to permanent loss of bladder muscle tone. These complications make timely diagnosis and management essential for maintaining quality of life and preventing irreversible damage.

Question 8

Can Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

BPH cannot be diagnosed by blood tests alone, but the PSA blood test is an important tool for monitoring prostate health and ruling out other conditions. BPH diagnosis typically involves a combination of symptom assessment, physical examination (digital rectal exam), and PSA testing. Blood tests help healthcare providers distinguish between BPH and prostate cancer, as both conditions can elevate PSA levels. Additional diagnostic tools may include urinalysis, urine flow studies, and imaging tests to assess prostate size and urinary function.

Question 9

How is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia treated?

Accepted Answer

BPH treatment depends on symptom severity and ranges from watchful waiting for mild cases to medications and surgical procedures for more advanced disease. Alpha-blockers like tamsulosin relax prostate and bladder muscles to improve urine flow, while 5-alpha reductase inhibitors like finasteride shrink the prostate by blocking DHT production. Minimally invasive procedures include transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), laser therapy, and newer techniques like prostatic urethral lift. Lifestyle modifications such as limiting fluids before bedtime, avoiding caffeine and alcohol, and practicing bladder training can also help manage symptoms.

Question 10

How can I prevent Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia?

Accepted Answer

While BPH cannot be completely prevented due to its strong association with aging, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can reduce risk and slow progression. Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables (particularly tomatoes high in lycopene), and limiting red meat and high-fat dairy may support prostate health. Staying physically active, managing diabetes and heart disease, and avoiding medications that worsen urinary symptoms (like decongestants and antihistamines) can help. Regular prostate health monitoring starting at age 50, or earlier if you have risk factors, enables early detection and intervention.

Question 11

What natural remedies help with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia?

Accepted Answer

Saw palmetto extract is the most studied natural remedy for BPH symptoms, with some men reporting improved urinary flow and reduced nighttime urination. Beta-sitosterol, a plant compound found in many vegetables and nuts, may help improve urinary symptoms and flow. Pygeum africanum extract and pumpkin seed oil have traditional use for prostate health support. Lifestyle measures like double voiding (urinating, waiting a moment, then urinating again), limiting caffeine and alcohol, and practicing pelvic floor exercises can provide symptom relief. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting supplements, as they can interact with medications and may affect PSA test results.

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:
            
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                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.
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                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.
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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
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            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.
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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.
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            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).
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            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Blood Test

What is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia?

What causes Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia?

What is the best test for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia?

When should I get tested for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia?

References

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