Overview

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition where the prostate gland, located just below the bladder, enlarges. This can cause it to press against the urethra, affecting the flow of urine. It is a normal part of the aging process for many men and is not cancerous.

Symptoms

Symptoms can include a weak urinary stream, difficulty starting urination, frequent urination, especially at night (nocturia), a feeling of incomplete bladder emptying, and sudden, urgent needs to urinate. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and can interfere with daily life.

Causes

The exact cause is unknown, but it is linked to changes in male hormone levels (particularly testosterone and dihydrotestosterone) that occur as men age. A family history of BPH can also increase risk.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and can include lifestyle changes (like limiting caffeine and alcohol), medications (alpha-blockers or 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors), or in more severe cases, surgery (such as TURP).

When to See a Doctor

Consult a doctor if you have any symptoms that bother you, especially if you have blood in your urine, can't urinate at all, or have lower back pain, as these may indicate complications.