[Opinion] Frequent Urination and Nighttime Bathroom Visits: When to Suspect Jeonlipseon Bidaejeung

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common issue that affects many men as they age. The prostate is a small gland located below the bladder in men, surrounding the urethra, the passage through which urine flows. As men get older, the prostate enlarges and compresses the urethra, which is what BPH is. This causes difficulties in urination and frequent trips to the bathroom, leading to discomfort.

Oh Jung-hyun, Head of the Department of Urology at SMG Yonsei Hospital.

There are various reasons why BPH occurs, but the primary cause is related to aging. Changes in male hormones as men age can cause the prostate to enlarge. Additionally, if there is a family history of BPH, there is a high possibility of genetic influence. Lifestyle habits are also important; consuming a high-fat diet, being obese, or excessive drinking and smoking can increase the risk of developing BPH.

The main symptoms of BPH are related to urination problems. Men may experience frequent urination and nocturia, which is the need to urinate frequently at night. Over time, the urine stream may weaken, making it difficult to urinate or causing a sensation of incomplete emptying. In severe cases, acute urinary retention may occur, where no urine can be passed at all, requiring immediate medical attention. These symptoms can cause significant inconvenience in daily life.

Treatment methods for BPH vary depending on the severity of symptoms. For mild symptoms, improving lifestyle habits and regular monitoring may be sufficient. However, if symptoms worsen, medication or surgical treatment may be necessary.

Medication is commonly used in the early stages of BPH to help ease urination or reduce the size of the prostate. If symptoms do not improve with medication, surgery may be considered. Traditional surgical methods involve inserting an endoscope through the urethra to remove part of the prostate. While this surgery is effective, it may have side effects such as bleeding or infection.

Recently, a new treatment called Rezum has gained attention. The principle of Rezum therapy is to inject high-temperature steam directly into the prostate tissue to shrink the enlarged prostate. During this process, the steam destroys cells within the tissue, reducing the size of the prostate and decreasing the pressure on the urethra. This method does not require incisions or resection, can be performed simply under local anesthesia, allows for quick recovery, and has a low risk of complications. Patients who undergo Rezum treatment can return to their daily lives quickly, resulting in high satisfaction.

BPH is a common condition affecting many men, but appropriate treatment can greatly improve quality of life. Especially recently, innovative treatments like Rezum have been developed to provide better outcomes for patients. If symptoms of BPH are suspected, it is important to visit a hospital early, consult with a specialist, and establish an appropriate treatment plan.

Jung Hyun Oh, Chief of Urology, SMG Yonsei Hospital