Understanding Enlarged Prostate: Causes, Symptoms, and Risks
This article explains benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), its development, symptoms, and possible complications. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing early signs, understanding risks such as urinary retention and infections, and seeking timely medical care for effective management. Ideal for men experiencing urinary changes, it offers insights into diagnosis and treatment options to maintain urinary health and prevent serious outcomes.
An enlarged prostate, medically known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is a non-cancerous increase in prostate size that can impact urinary function in men. Although the exact cause remains unclear, BPH is generally linked to aging and changes in hormonal balance and cell growth.
How does BPH develop?
It occurs due to the proliferation of prostate epithelial and stromal cells, forming noticeable nodules in the transition zone of the prostate.
These nodules, once large enough, push forward, constricting the urethra and making urine flow from the bladder more difficult. This results in increased effort during urination, potentially weakening or enlarging the bladder muscle over time. If untreated, BPH can lead to complications such as bladder stones, recurrent infections, or even chronic kidney damage that may progress to kidney failure.
Symptoms of an enlarged prostate include pressure on the urethra and bladder, leading to:
Difficulty fully emptying the bladder
Frequent urination, including nighttime urges
Difficulty initiating or stopping urination
Weak urine stream
Persistent sensation of incomplete bladder emptying
Symptoms range from mild to severe; in rare cases, the blockage prevents urination altogether, risking urinary retention, kidney issues, bladder stones, and infections.
Possible complications include acute urinary retention—a sudden inability to urinate accompanied by bladder swelling and severe pain—and urinary tract infections, which affect many men over 50. UTIs may cause foul-smelling urine, burning sensations, and discomfort, requiring immediate medical treatment to prevent further health issues.
