Overview of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

Dr. Tobias Kohler, urologist at Mayo, discusses an overview of benign prostatic hyperplasia. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) — also called prostate gland enlargement — is a common condition as men get older. The overview includes diagnosis, symptoms, quality of life, and treatment options.

An enlarged prostate gland can cause uncomfortable urinary symptoms, such as blocking the flow of urine out of the bladder.

Symptoms

• Frequent or urgent need to urinate
• Increased frequency of urination at night (nocturia)
• Difficulty starting urination
• Weak urine stream or a stream that stops and starts
• Dribbling at the end of urination
• Inability to completely empty the bladder

There are several effective treatments for prostate gland enlargement, these include:

• Medications
• Minimally invasive therapies
• Surgery

Helpful Links

More helpful discussion may be found at the Men's Health Group

Learn more about benign prostatic hyperplasia.