Benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH) refers to an enlarged prostate gland. The condition occurs in over half of men over the age of 75 and is considered to be a normal part of the aging process.
More About Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy
Benign prostatic hypertrophy is primarily caused by changes in hormone balance and cell growth. Since the prostate gland surrounds the urethra, the most common signs and symptoms associated with the condition involve urination. Common symptoms of BPH include:
- Frequently feeling the need to urinate
- Difficulty starting and stopping a stream of urine
- Constant feeling of a full or not completely empty bladder
- A weak urine system
BPH does not cause prostate cancer, affect a man's fertility, or the affect the ability to get an erection. In some cases, the prostate can become so enlarged that it completely blocks the bladder, making it extremely difficult or impossible to urinate, which causes serious health problems.
