Temple Faculty Physicians is experiencing technical issues with phone lines. If you are experiencing an emergency, please visit your nearest emergency room. If you would like to schedule an appointment with your provider or have general questions or requests, please contact us by using myTempleHealth.

myTempleHealth
800-TEMPLE-MED Schedule Appointment
SEARCH TEMPLE HEALTH

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

What Is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (Enlarged Prostate)?

Benign prostatic hyperplasia – also known as an enlarged prostate – is a common issue in men as they get older. Because of its location just beneath the bladder, an enlarged prostate gland can block urine flow and cause symptoms that affect the urinary tract, bladder and kidneys.

It isn’t clear exactly what causes benign prostate hyperplasia, though it is common for the prostate to continue to grow throughout a man’s lifetime. In some cases, an enlarged prostate may be caused by age-related sex hormone changes.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia is most common in men over the age of 40, affecting approximately one-third of men by age 60 and about half of men by age 80.

A family history of the condition, diabetes, heart disease and obesity can increase your risk of the condition.

Symptoms

The symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia include:

  • Difficulty completely emptying the bladder

  • Dribbling at the end of urination

  • Urgent or frequent urge to urinate

  • Urinating more frequently at night

  • Trouble starting urination

  • Weak urine stream

An enlarged prostate gland can also cause some less common symptoms like:

The severity of symptoms varies. Some cases of benign prostatic hyperplasia resolve on their own, while others require treatment. The condition does not appear to raise a man’s risk of prostate cancer. 

Treatment Options

Treatment options for benign prostatic hyperplasia include:

  • Medications – These include alpha blocks, 5-alpha reductase inhibitors.

  • Minimally invasive, robotic or traditional surgery – This is typically recommended for moderate to severe symptoms that haven’t improved with medication or if you have complications.

  • Aquablation - This robotically assisted waterjet ablation therapy is recommended for a desire to maintain sexual function with prostate treatment. 

Ready for an Appointment?

If you're experiencing signs or symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia, schedule an appointment or call 800-TEMPLE-MED (800-836-7536) today.

Learn more about our doctors and care team who diagnose and treat benign prostatic hyperplasia.