What does benign prostatic hyperplasia mean in men?

The prostate sits below the bladder and surrounds part of the urethra. As it enlarges, urine may flow more slowly or stop and start. Men may notice difficulty starting, a weak stream, dribbling, a need to pass urine often, or waking at night. Symptoms vary, and prostate size does not always match symptom severity.

BPH is different from prostate cancer, although urinary symptoms should still be assessed because other bladder, prostate, or medication-related problems can cause similar changes.

Arrange a medical review if urinary changes interfere with sleep, work, travel, or intimacy. A clinician may ask about the pattern, examine you, review medicines, and assess urine or blood tests. Keep a short record of drinks, daytime visits, night waking, urgency, and leakage.

Treatment may involve monitoring, changes to evening fluids or bladder irritants, prescribed medicine, or a procedure when symptoms or complications warrant it. Do not stop prescribed medicines without advice.

Seek urgent care if you cannot pass urine, have severe lower abdominal pain, see blood in the urine, develop fever with painful urination, or feel acutely unwell. Sudden inability to empty the bladder can require prompt drainage and assessment.

Ask what may be causing your symptoms, whether your medicines could contribute, how your bladder emptying will be checked, and which treatment fits your priorities. Ask what change should trigger an earlier review.