Overview
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) — also called prostate gland enlargement — is a common condition as men get older. An enlarged prostate gland can cause uncomfortable urinary symptoms like urine blockage out of the bladder. It can also cause bladder, urinary tract or kidney problems.
Symptoms
While the severity of symptoms of those who have prostate gland enlargement varies, 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
Risk Factors
Risk factors for prostate gland enlargement include:
- Aging
- Family history
- Diabetes and heart disease