Prostate Enlargement (BPH): Symptoms Every Man Over 40 Should Watch For
As men age, changes in the prostate are common. One of the most frequent conditions is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), or prostate enlargement. While not cancerous, BPH can significantly impact quality of life if left untreated.
According to Dr. Shawket, awareness and early intervention are key to managing prostate health and preventing complications.
What is BPH?
The prostate is a small gland located below the bladder that surrounds the urethra. As men age, the gland often grows larger. In BPH, this growth squeezes the urethra, leading to problems with urination.
Although prostate enlargement is common, it should not be ignored, as symptoms can worsen over time.
Symptoms of Prostate Enlargement
Men with BPH may experience one or more of the following:
- Frequent urination, especially at night (nocturia)
- Difficulty starting urination or weak urine flow
- Dribbling at the end of urination
- Sensation of incomplete emptying of the bladder
- Urgency to urinate with little warning
- Urinary retention (in severe cases, inability to urinate at all)
These symptoms vary in severity but tend to progress if left untreated.
Risk Factors
Certain factors increase the likelihood of developing BPH:
- Age – risk rises after 40 and is very common after 60
- Family history of prostate problems
- Lifestyle factors such as obesity and lack of exercise
- Medical conditions like diabetes or heart disease
Why BPH Should Not Be Ignored
While BPH is not cancer, untreated enlargement can lead to:
- Bladder infections
- Kidney damage
- Urinary retention requiring emergency care
- Reduced quality of life due to constant discomfort
Diagnosis
Dr. Shawket performs a thorough evaluation that may include:
- Medical history and physical examination
- Digital rectal exam (DRE)
- PSA blood test (to rule out prostate cancer)
- Ultrasound or urine flow studies
These tests help confirm BPH and determine the best treatment plan.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms:
- Lifestyle changes – limiting evening fluid intake, reducing caffeine/alcohol, and regular exercise
- Medications – to relax prostate muscles or shrink the gland
- Minimally invasive procedures – such as laser therapy or UroLift
- Surgery (TURP or laser enucleation) – for severe or resistant cases
With modern techniques, most men find significant relief and improved quality of life.