Prostate enlargement

Prostate enlargement, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is a common condition as men get older. An enlarged prostate gland can cause uncomfortable urinary symptoms, such as blocking the flow of urine out of the bladder. It can also cause bladder, urinary tract or kidney problems.

Symptoms

The severity of symptoms in people who have prostate gland enlargement varies, but symptoms tend to gradually worsen over time. Common signs and symptoms of BPH include:

• Frequent or urgent need to urinate
• Increased frequency of urination at night (nocturia)
• Difficulty starting urination
• Weak urine stream or a stream that stops and starts
• Dribbling at the end of urination
• Inability to completely empty the bladder

Causes

The prostate gland is located beneath your bladder. The tube that transports urine from the bladder out of your penis (urethra) passes through the center of the prostate. When the prostate enlarges, it begins to block urine flow.

Most men have continued prostate growth throughout life. In many men, this continued growth enlarges the prostate enough to cause urinary symptoms or to significantly block urine flow.

It isn't entirely clear what causes the prostate to enlarge. However, it might be due to changes in the balance of sex hormones as men grow older.

Risk factors

Risk factors for prostate gland enlargement include:

• Aging. Prostate gland enlargement rarely causes signs and symptoms in men younger than age 40. About one-third of men experience moderate to severe symptoms by age 60, and about half do so by age 80.
• Family history. Having a blood relative, such as a father or a brother, with prostate problems means you're more likely to have problems.
• Diabetes and heart disease. Studies show that diabetes, as well as heart disease and use of beta blockers, might increase the risk of BPH.
• Lifestyle. Obesity increases the risk of BPH, while exercise can lower your risk.

Complications

Complications of an enlarged prostate can include:

• Sudden inability to urinate (urinary retention)
• Urinary tract infections (UTI)
• Bladder stones
• Bladder damage
• Kidney damage

Treatment

Treatment options for an enlarged prostate include medication, lifestyle changes, and surgery. The best treatment choice for you depends on several factors, including how much your symptoms bother you, the size of your prostate, other health conditions you might have, and your age.

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