Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia and Its Symptoms: A Patient's Inquiry

Q: Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia and Its Symptoms: A Patient's Inquiry

Hello： The correlation between the two is not significant, but frequent urination, nocturia, and a feeling of incomplete bladder emptying are symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). <br>If medication does not lead to significant improvement, it is important to inform your

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) Issues

Hello, Doctor: In mid-July of this year, I experienced hematuria.
After undergoing various tests in August, including blood tests (PSA level 2.9), urine cytology, CT scan, and cystoscopy, it was confirmed that there were no tumors, and I was diagnosed with benign prostatic hyperplasia.
In recent months, I have also been experiencing frequent urination and nocturia (about 2-3 times each night), along with a persistent feeling of incomplete bladder emptying (a sensation of fullness in the lower abdomen).
My question for you is regarding a phenomenon I have noticed in the past week or two: when lying flat on my back at night, I often hear abdominal rumbling sounds (lasting about 1-2 hours), and I also experience these sounds after urination (gurgling noises).
Is this phenomenon related to the urinary system? Could it be caused by excessive urine retention, and would it affect kidney function? Or could it be related to gastrointestinal issues, requiring a visit to a gastroenterologist for further examination? Thank you for taking the time to respond!

Mr. Yang, 60~69 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/12/16

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: The correlation between the two is not significant, but frequent urination, nocturia, and a feeling of incomplete bladder emptying are symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
If medication does not lead to significant improvement, it is important to inform your physician.
There are many alternative medications available that may be more effective.
Smooth urination should not affect kidney function.
Additionally, abdominal rumbling is often related to digestive issues; increasing your intake of fruits and vegetables and engaging in gentle exercise may help.
You can also observe the consistency of your stool and any changes in its firmness.
If you have concerns, a gastroenterology evaluation may be warranted.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2019/12/16

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding your recent symptoms and the diagnosis of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). It’s understandable to have concerns, especially when experiencing new symptoms. Let’s break down your situation and address your questions.

Understanding Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
BPH is a common condition in older men, characterized by the enlargement of the prostate gland. This enlargement can lead to various urinary symptoms, including:
- Frequent urination: The need to urinate more often than usual, especially at night (nocturia).

- Urgency: A sudden, strong need to urinate.

- Difficulty starting urination: A delay in the flow of urine.

- Weak urine stream: A decrease in the force of the urine stream.

- Feeling of incomplete bladder emptying: The sensation that the bladder is not fully emptied after urination.

Your symptoms of frequent urination, nocturia, and the feeling of incomplete bladder emptying are consistent with BPH. The condition itself is not cancerous and does not increase the risk of prostate cancer, but it can significantly affect quality of life.

Recent Symptoms: Abdominal Sounds
Regarding the recent abdominal sounds you’ve been experiencing, particularly at night while lying down or after urination, this phenomenon is known as "borborygmi," which refers to the rumbling or gurgling noises produced by the movement of gas and fluid in the intestines.
1. Relation to Urinary Symptoms: The sounds you hear are likely related to gastrointestinal activity rather than a direct consequence of your urinary symptoms. While it is possible that a full bladder could exert pressure on the intestines, leading to increased bowel sounds, this is not a common cause of significant concern.
2. Kidney Function: Your urinary symptoms and the presence of borborygmi are unlikely to directly affect your kidney function. However, if you experience any changes in urination patterns, such as pain, blood in urine, or significant changes in frequency, it is essential to consult your healthcare provider.

3. Gastrointestinal Concerns: If the abdominal sounds are accompanied by other gastrointestinal symptoms such as pain, bloating, changes in bowel habits, or discomfort, it may be prudent to consult a gastroenterologist. Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or other gastrointestinal disorders could be contributing to your symptoms.

Recommendations
- Monitoring Symptoms: Keep track of your urinary and gastrointestinal symptoms. If the abdominal sounds persist or worsen, or if you develop new symptoms, it would be wise to seek further evaluation.

- Follow-Up with Urologist: Continue to follow up with your urologist regarding your BPH management. They may recommend lifestyle changes, medications, or other interventions to alleviate your urinary symptoms.

- Gastroenterology Consultation: If you feel that your gastrointestinal symptoms are significant or bothersome, consider scheduling an appointment with a gastroenterologist for a thorough evaluation.

Conclusion
In summary, while your urinary symptoms are consistent with BPH, the abdominal sounds you are experiencing are likely related to gastrointestinal activity rather than a urinary issue. It is essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare providers and report any new or worsening symptoms. Regular monitoring and follow-up are key to managing your health effectively.

Thank you for reaching out, and I wish you the best in your health journey. Please feel free to ask any further questions or concerns you may have.

Best regards.

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