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, such as blocking the flow of urine out of the bladder. It can also cause bladder, urinary tract or kidney problems. There are several effective treatments for prostate gland enlargement, including medications, minimally invasive therapies and surgery. To choose the best option, you and your doctor will consider your symptoms, the size of your prostate, other health conditions you might have and your preferences. The severity of symptoms in people who have prostate gland enlargement varies, but 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

• Urinary tract infection

• Inability to urinate

The size of your prostate doesn’t necessarily determine the severity of your symptoms. Some men with only slightly enlarged prostates can have significant symptoms, while other men with very enlarged prostates can have only minor urinary symptoms. 

If you are having problems with symptoms of enlarged prostate or have been previously diagnosed with enlarged prostate Dr. Whiteley encourages you to schedule an appointment to have your case evaluated and arrangements can be made to customize your care for your personal needs.