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turp

Enlarged Prostate (BPH)

What is the prostate?

The prostate is a gland in the male reproductive system. It lies just below the bladder. It makes fluid that is part of semen.

What is an enlarged prostate (BPH)?

An enlarged prostate is when your prostate gland becomes larger than normal. It's also called benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH for short. Benign means not cancer. And hyperplasia means too much cell growth. BPH isn't cancer and it doesn't increase your risk of getting prostate cancer.

Usually, the prostate gland continues to grow during adult life. That's why BPH is the most common prostate condition in people over age 50. As the prostate gets bigger, it may press against the bladder and pinch the urethra. This can slow or block the flow of urine out of your bladder.

Over time, the bladder muscle may become weak from trying to pass urine through a narrow urethra. When this happens, your bladder may not empty completely when you urinate. A narrowed urethra and weak bladder cause many of the urinary problems you may have with BPH.

What causes an enlarged prostate (BPH)?

Researchers aren't sure why the prostate keeps growing. Some researchers think changes in hormones with aging may cause the prostate to get bigger.

Who is more likely to develop BPH?

You're more likely to develop BPH if you:

What are the symptoms of BPH?

Symptoms of BPH include:

It's important to see your health care provider if you have any of these symptoms because they could be from a more serious health problem.

You should get medical help right away if you:

What other problems can BPH cause?

For most people, BPH doesn't cause other problems. But BPH increases your chance of developing serious conditions, including:

How is BPH diagnosed?

To find out if you have BPH, your provider will:

What are the treatments for BPH?

Not everyone needs treatment for BPH. Treatment options depend on how much your symptoms bother you, your health, age, and the size of your prostate:

Your provider can explain the possible benefits and side effects of your treatment options so you can decide what's best for you.

Can BPH be prevented?

Researchers haven't found ways to prevent BPH. You can take care of your prostate health by:

NIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases

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