Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is an age-related enlargement of the prostate that can cause urinary symptoms such as weak stream, urgency, and nocturia. Clinicians use history, digital rectal exam, urinalysis, and selective testing (PSA, ultrasound) to distinguish BPH from prostatitis or cancer. Management spans lifestyle changes and medications to minimally invasive or surgical procedures for severe cases. Diet and supplements have limited or mixed evidence; consult a clinician before starting them.

What an enlarged prostate means

An enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia, BPH) is common as men age. It results from growth of prostate tissue that can press on the urethra and interfere with normal urine flow. BPH is different from prostate cancer and from prostatitis (prostate inflammation or infection), though symptoms can overlap.

Common causes and distinctions

  • BPH: a noncancerous enlargement linked to age-related hormonal changes and to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) activity in prostate cells. It often progresses slowly.
  • Prostatitis: inflammation of the prostate that can be caused by bacteria (acute or chronic) or by nonbacterial mechanisms. It typically causes more pelvic pain and sometimes fever.
  • Prostate cancer: a separate disease that can coexist with BPH but requires specific testing and treatment.

Typical symptoms to watch for

  • Weak or interrupted urine stream
  • Difficulty starting urination or dribbling after urination
  • Frequent or urgent need to urinate, including at night (nocturia)
  • Incomplete bladder emptying or a sensation of fullness
  • Pain or burning with urination (more common with prostatitis)
  • Blood in the urine or semen - see a clinician if this occurs
If you develop fever, sudden inability to urinate, or severe pain, seek urgent care.

How doctors evaluate an enlarged prostate

Evaluation usually starts with a medical history and a physical exam, including a digital rectal exam (DRE). Common tests include urinalysis (to check for infection), serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test when indicated, bladder scanning or ultrasound, and urinary flow measurement. A urology referral is appropriate for persistent or severe symptoms.

Treatment options: lifestyle to procedures

  • Lifestyle changes: reduce evening fluid intake, cut or limit caffeine and alcohol, schedule regular voiding, and manage constipation. These simple steps often reduce symptoms.
  • Medications: alpha-blockers (improve urine flow) and 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors (can shrink the prostate over months) are widely used.
  • Minimally invasive procedures and surgery: for men whose symptoms do not respond to other measures, options range from transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) to newer office-based procedures (for example, urethral lift or steam ablation) that relieve obstruction.

Diet, supplements, and fertility

A healthy diet, weight control, and regular exercise support urinary health. Evidence for specific supplements (zinc, saw palmetto, or essential fatty acids) is mixed; some men try them, but benefits are not guaranteed and supplements can interact with other medicines. An enlarged prostate itself usually does not cause infertility, but certain prostate infections or treatments (including surgery) can affect ejaculation or fertility.

When to see a clinician

See a primary care clinician or urologist if urinary symptoms affect quality of life, or immediately if you have fever, severe pain, blood in the urine, or sudden inability to urinate. Early assessment distinguishes BPH from infection or cancer and opens the right treatment path.

FAQs about Enlarged Prostate

How can I tell BPH from prostatitis or prostate cancer?
BPH usually causes gradual urinary symptoms like weak stream and nocturia. Prostatitis often produces pelvic pain and sometimes fever; urinalysis and cultures help detect infection. Prostate cancer may cause few early symptoms and is evaluated with PSA testing, imaging, and specialist assessment. A clinician can sort these out with exams and tests.
Will lifestyle changes improve urinary symptoms?
Yes. Reducing evening fluids, limiting caffeine and alcohol, scheduled voiding, and treating constipation can reduce urgency and nighttime trips. These measures often complement medical treatment.
Do supplements such as zinc or saw palmetto help an enlarged prostate?
Research on supplements is mixed. Some men report symptom improvement, but clinical evidence is inconsistent. Supplements can interact with medications, so check with your clinician before use.
When should I see a doctor urgently?
Seek prompt care for fever with urinary symptoms, severe pelvic pain, sudden inability to urinate, or visible blood in the urine. These signs may indicate infection, urinary retention, or other complications.
Can an enlarged prostate cause infertility?
An enlarged prostate itself usually does not cause infertility. However, prostate infections, some treatments, or surgeries can affect ejaculation and fertility. Discuss concerns with your provider before treatment.

News about Enlarged Prostate

Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) - nhs.uk [Visit Site | Read More]

25% of men will have an enlarged prostate by 50: What can be done now to prevent it - Times of India [Visit Site | Read More]

Enlarged prostate: Robotic technology treatment brings hope - BBC [Visit Site | Read More]

Aquablation shows promise for treating enlarged prostate with fewer side effects - News-Medical [Visit Site | Read More]

Prostate Problems - National Institute on Aging (.gov) [Visit Site | Read More]

Can saw palmetto treat an enlarged prostate? - Harvard Health [Visit Site | Read More]

Prostate Cancer Symptoms, Treatment & Life expectancy - homecare.co.uk [Visit Site | Read More]