Alternative Names
BPH; Benign prostatic hypertrophy (hyperplasia); Prostate – enlarged
Definition of Enlarged prostate
The prostate is a male reproductive gland that produces the fluid that carries sperm during ejaculation. It surrounds the urethra, the tube through which urine passes out of the body.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
The actual cause of prostate enlargement is unknown. Factors linked to aging and the testicles themselves may play a role in the growth of the gland. Men who have had their testicles removed at a young age (for example, as a result of testicular cancer) do not develop BPH.
Symptoms
Less than half of all men with BPH have symptoms of the disease, which include:
Signs and tests
After taking a complete medical history, your doctor will perform a to feel the prostate gland. The following tests may also be performed:
Treatment
The choice of a treatment is based on the severity of your symptoms, the extent to which they affect your daily life, and the presence of any other medical conditions. Treatment options include “watchful waiting,” lifestyle changes, medication, or surgery.
Review
Reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. Also reviewed by Scott Miller, MD, Urologist, private practice, Atlanta, Georgia. – 8/10/2009
