BPH or Enlarged Prostate — Symptoms
BPH or
enlarged prostate symptoms vary from person to person. In many men, these symptoms are not problematic. However, many men with this condition have prostate symptoms that are bothersome enough for them to seek medical treatment.
Many of the symptoms of BPH or enlarged prostate are caused by obstruction of the urethra, along with gradual loss of bladder function. The size of the prostate does not always correspond with the severity of the obstruction or the symptoms, which may include:
- Feeling of incomplete bladder emptying
- Delay and difficulty in initiating an urinary stream
- Stopping and starting urination several times during voiding
- Weak urinary stream
- Dribbling at the end of urination
- Pushing or straining while urinating
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- Feeling of little warning when the urge of urination develops
- Frequent urination with short intervals
- Need to urinate during the night
- Inability to hold back urine
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Acute Urinary Retention
Some men may not know they have a urinary blockage until they suddenly find that they cannot urinate at all. This is called acute urinary retention. This condition may be caused by some over-the-counter cold or allergy medicines that contain an ingredient that can prevent the bladder from relaxing and releasing urine. In men who have a partial blockage, alcohol, cold temperatures, or a long period of immobility can cause urinary retention.
When to See a Doctor about BPH or Enlarged Prostate
See your doctor if you are experiencing any urinary problems, even if they are not bothersome. Your doctor can determine if you have
BPH or enlarged prostate, and whether your diagnosis requires treatment.
