The doctor inserts a gloved finger into the rectum to feel the part of the prostate next to it. The tube contains a lens and a light system, which help the doctor see the inside of the urethra and the bladder to determine the size of the gland and identify the location and degree of the obstruction. Details in part 3 of this series. BPH symptoms usually require treatment at some time. However, early treatment when the gland is just mildly enlarged may not be needed because the symptoms of BPH clear up without treatment in some mild cases.
Regular checkups are important, however, to watch for developing problems.
When BPH poses a danger to the patient's health or causes a major inconvenience to him, treatment is usually recommended. All men are affected. Not all need treatment, but the 'aging prostate' process is present and is slowly progressive. This may include a modification of fluid intake, the avoidance of caffeine, and checkups by their urologist or other physician. Due to the significant impact BPH has on the patient's quality of life, however, this approach is usually temporary.