Enlarged Prostate (BPH)

The prostate is a small gland in men that sits below the bladder and surrounds the tube that carries urine out of the body. An enlarged prostate, or benign prostatic hyperplasia, is a non-cancerous increase in its size. As it grows, it can squeeze the urethra and affect the flow of urine, leading to bladder and urinary symptoms.

An enlarged prostate is very common and becomes more likely with age. It mainly affects men over the age of 50, and the chance of having some prostate growth rises steadily through later life. Not every man with an enlarged prostate has troublesome symptoms, and the degree of enlargement does not always match how bothersome it feels.

Symptoms relate to passing urine and can include a weak or interrupted stream, difficulty starting, dribbling at the end, and a feeling that the bladder has not fully emptied. Many men notice a frequent or urgent need to urinate, including waking at night. Symptoms often develop slowly and can vary in how much they affect daily life.

The exact cause is not fully understood, but changes in hormone levels as men age are thought to play a role. The main risk factor is getting older. A family history of prostate problems, being overweight, and certain health conditions may also increase the likelihood. The condition is not caused by lifestyle alone and is not a form of cancer.

A doctor will ask about urinary symptoms and may use a simple questionnaire to gauge their severity. A physical examination, including feeling the prostate, is common. Urine and blood tests can help rule out other causes and check kidney function, and a blood test may assess prostate health. Sometimes flow measurements or an ultrasound are used to guide treatment.

Treatment depends on how much symptoms affect daily life. Mild cases may simply be monitored alongside lifestyle adjustments such as limiting fluids before bed. Several types of medication can relax the prostate or reduce its size. When symptoms are severe or other treatments do not help, a range of procedures can relieve the blockage. A specialist can explain the options.

Because an enlarged prostate is closely linked to ageing, it cannot be reliably prevented. However, staying physically active, keeping a healthy weight and managing conditions such as diabetes may support overall urinary health. Regular check-ups allow any symptoms to be picked up early so that they can be managed before they become more troublesome.