How is benign prostatic hyperplasia different in men?

The prostate sits below the bladder and surrounds part of the urethra. As it enlarges, urine may take longer to start, flow more slowly or stop and start. The bladder may also become more sensitive, creating urgency or frequent trips, including at night. BPH is not prostate cancer, but similar urinary symptoms can come from infection, medicines, stones or other prostate problems, so symptoms should be assessed rather than self-diagnosed.

Arrange a medical assessment if urinary changes are persistent or bothersome. Keep a short record of daytime and night-time urination, urgency, leakage and stream changes, and mention all medicines, including cold remedies. A clinician may discuss fluid timing, bladder habits, examination and urine testing before recommending observation, medicine or another treatment. Avoid restricting fluids excessively, because concentrated urine can irritate the bladder.

Seek urgent help if you cannot pass urine, have severe lower abdominal pain, fever with urinary symptoms, or visible blood in the urine. Sudden inability to empty the bladder needs prompt treatment. Contact a clinician for worsening leakage, repeated infections or symptoms that interfere with sleep and daily activities.

Ask which tests can distinguish BPH from infection or another prostate condition, whether any current medicine may worsen symptoms, and what the benefits and side effects of each treatment are. Ask when to return if the stream changes or emptying becomes difficult.