Is benign prostatic hyperplasia safe in men?

Benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH, is enlargement of the prostate that can narrow the tube carrying urine from the bladder. Men may notice a weak stream, difficulty starting, stopping and starting, urgency, frequent night-time urination, or a feeling that the bladder has not emptied.

BPH is not prostate cancer and does not automatically become cancer. Similar urinary symptoms can have other causes, however, so an assessment may include questions, an examination, urine testing, and other checks chosen by the clinician.

Book a routine appointment if urinary changes are persistent or affecting sleep, work, travel, or intimacy. Keep a brief record of timing, frequency, stream changes, fluid intake, and medicines. A clinician may discuss observation, lifestyle adjustments, medicines, or a procedure depending on symptom burden and findings. Avoid changing prescribed treatment without advice.

Get urgent medical help if you cannot pass urine, have severe lower abdominal pain, fever with urinary symptoms, visible blood in the urine, or worsening pain in the side or back. These signs can indicate retention, infection, bleeding, or another problem needing prompt treatment.

Ask whether your symptoms fit BPH, which tests are appropriate, whether any medicines may worsen urination, and which changes should trigger an urgent call.