Enlarged Prostate (BPH)

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Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), commonly called an enlarged prostate, is a non-cancerous growth of the prostate gland that becomes increasingly common with age. As the gland enlarges, it can press on the urethra and slow the flow of urine.

BPH is not cancer, though the two conditions can occasionally coexist, which is why any new urinary symptom in an older man deserves a proper evaluation rather than being assumed to be simple aging.

The prostate enlarges with age largely due to hormonal changes involving testosterone and its byproduct DHT. Genetics, obesity, and diabetes can also influence how much — and how fast — the gland grows.

Diagnosis typically involves a symptom questionnaire, a physical prostate exam, a PSA blood test to help rule out other causes, a urine flow test, and an ultrasound to check prostate size and bladder emptying.

There is no guaranteed way to prevent age-related prostate growth, but maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active, and managing diabetes appear to slow symptom progression. Routine checkups after age 50 help catch changes early.

Reducing fluids, caffeine, and alcohol in the evening eases nighttime trips to the bathroom. Some over-the-counter cold and allergy medications can worsen urinary symptoms and are worth discussing with a doctor beforehand.