Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) Symptoms
An enlarged prostate, known clinically as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), can cause multiple worrying symptoms. While BPH is not life-threatening, it’s important to recognize and address symptoms early for optimal outcomes.
What Are BPH Symptoms?
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is non-cancerous prostate gland enlargement. As the prostate gland surrounds the urethra, the enlargement of the gland can cause a variety of urinary symptoms.
BPH symptoms can vary in intensity and might be confused with other conditions, including urinary tract infections, prostate cancer, or bladder stones. Please consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis if you are exhibiting any urinary symptoms.
Signs of BPH
Urinary frequency
Men with BPH often experience a need to urinate more frequently, both during the day and at night. Sleep disruptions can contribute to numerous medical complications, including diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure.
Urgent need to urinate
There is a sense of urgency to urinate, which may be difficult to control. This symptom can lead to a sudden and strong desire to urinate even if the bladder is not full.
Weakened flow of urine
BPH can cause a weakened or reduced urinary stream. The urine flow may be slow or intermittent, making it difficult to empty the bladder.
Struggle to start urination
Men with BPH may have trouble initiating urination, resulting in a delay before urine starts to flow.
Difficulty stopping urination
After urination, some men may experience a dribbling of urine, possibly due to the bladder not emptying sufficiently.
Incomplete bladder emptying
BPH can prevent the bladder from emptying, leading to a persistent feeling of fullness or the need to urinate again shortly after finishing.
Other less common symptoms might include the following concerns:
Hematuria
Some men with BPH may notice blood in their urine, indicating irritation or inflammation in the urinary tract.
Urinary tract infections
BPH can increase the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs), as the urine may not flow freely, allowing bacteria to multiply in the urinary tract.
Kidney disease
When left unaddressed, urine can stagnate in the bladder, leading to potentially serious kidney dysfunction.
Sexual performance issues
In some cases, BPH can cause sexual issues such as difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection or decreased libido.
While the symptoms of an enlarged prostate and prostate cancer may often be mistaken for one another due to their similar presentation, they are distinct conditions with different implications.
BPH or Prostate Cancer?
Although BPH and prostate cancer share some characteristics in their symptom presentation, it is crucial to understand their key differences for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Many of the above-listed BPH symptoms are present in cases of prostate cancer. Nevertheless, there are also prostate cancer symptoms that are generally not present in cases of BPH, including the following:
- Pelvic pain
- Back pain
- Hip pain
- Painful ejaculation
- Bloody semen
Understanding the differences between BPH and prostate cancer symptoms is crucial for timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Regular check-ups and screenings can help detect prostate-related issues early, ensuring prompt medical intervention if necessary.
Texas Prostate Institute: Advanced Outpatient Prostate Care
Texas Prostate Institute delivers superior patient care and advanced treatment options for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
Our team specializes in prostatic artery embolization (PAE). This outpatient endovascular procedure has revolutionized the management of BPH, providing patients with effective, minimally invasive treatment and improved quality of life.
Symptom relief is just an appointment away. Contact our helpful representatives to schedule a consultation today at 713-575-3686.
