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Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

Condition Basics

What is benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)?

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is an enlarged prostate gland, Opens dialog. The prostate gland surrounds the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body. As the prostate gets bigger, it may squeeze or partly block the urethra. This often causes problems with urinating.

BPH occurs in almost all men as they age. It is a common problem in older men. BPH is not cancer. But an enlarged prostate can cause urinary symptoms that need treatment.

What causes it?

BPH is probably a normal part of aging in men, caused by changes in hormones and cell growth. Genetics may play a role, especially for severe BPH in men younger than 60. Men older than 50 have higher chances of developing BPH. Experts don't know why some men have more severe symptoms than others.

What are the symptoms?

BPH causes urinary problems such as trouble starting and stopping the flow of urine, needing to urinate often, or feeling like your bladder isn't completely empty after you urinate. BPH does not cause prostate cancer and does not affect a man's ability to father children. It does not cause erection problems.

How is it diagnosed?

Your doctor can diagnose BPH by asking about your symptoms and health and by doing a physical exam. Tests may include a urine test and a digital rectal exam, Opens dialog. This lets your doctor feel the size of your prostate. Sometimes a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test is done to help rule out prostate cancer.

How is BPH treated?

In most cases, you don't need treatment unless symptoms bother you or you have problems such as backed-up urine, bladder infections, or bladder stones. Medicines may help reduce symptoms. Home treatment, such as avoiding alcohol, may also help. Sometimes surgery is done to remove part of your prostate.

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Symptoms

Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

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All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.