Overview
The prostate surrounds the urethra. As it grows, it can squeeze the urethra and make the bladder work harder.
BPH doesn't raise the risk of prostate cancer, but both are common, so checks matter.
Symptoms
Common signs:
- Weak urine stream or trouble starting
- Getting up at night to pee
- Frequent urge to urinate
Less common
- Dribbling
- Feeling the bladder isn't empty
Look up a symptom: Frequent urge to urinate · Getting up at night to pee · High PSA, or told the prostate feels hard or lumpy · Sudden strong urges to pee, sometimes leaking · Weak urine stream or trouble starting
When to get medical care
Causes
Hormone changes with aging cause the prostate to grow.
Does it spread or run in families?
- It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.
- It can run in families. Tell your doctor if a parent, brother, or sister has it.
Who is more likely to get it
- Age over 50
- Family history
- Obesity
- Diabetes
Possible complications
- Urinary tract infection
- Kidney stones: Bladder stones
Diagnosis
A healthcare professional asks about symptoms and examines the prostate.
Questions you may be asked
- How often you pee, at night too
- Medicines
The exam
A digital rectal exam.
Tests
Tests, if needed:
- Urine test:
- PSA blood test: Discuss the pros and cons.
- Bladder scan: Checks urine left after peeing.
Treatment
Mild symptoms may need only watching and habit changes.
Self-care
- Limit drinks in the evening
- Cut back on caffeine and alcohol
- Double voiding: pee, wait, then try again
- Avoid decongestants and some antihistamines: they can make it worse
Medicines
Medicines that may help:
| Medicine | Helps with | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha blockers | Faster relief of symptoms | Can cause dizziness. |
| Prostate-shrinking medicines | Larger prostates over months |
OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.
Procedures or surgery can help when medicines aren't enough.
Prevention
To ease symptoms:
- Stay active
- Limit evening drinks
Which doctor treats this
- Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
- They may send you to a urologist (urinary tract doctor).
Living with it
- Keep a simple diary of symptoms, triggers, and medicines to bring to visits.
- Bring a list of your medicines and questions to each visit.
- Stay active in ways that feel good to you.
- Get enough sleep and manage stress.
- Long-term illness can affect mood. Tell your doctor if you feel down or anxious.
Back to school, work, or sports
- Most people can keep working or going to school.
- Ask about changes that help, like extra breaks or a flexible schedule. Workers may be covered by the ADA. Students may get a 504 plan.
For caregivers
- Go to visits when you can and take notes.
- Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
- Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
- Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.
Outlook
Treatment works well for most men.
Myths and facts
Myth: An enlarged prostate means cancer.
Fact: BPH is not cancer and doesn't raise your cancer risk.
Getting ready for your visit
Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.
What to bring
- Bladder diary
Questions to ask
- Do I need a PSA test?
- What treatments fit me?
Research studies
Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.
Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Enlarged prostate (BPH)
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-12.