What Is an Enlarged Prostate Gland?

The prostate gland sits under the bladder in a male and produces the fluid that both transports and nourishes sperm. An enlarged prostate presents problems because the organ encompasses the urethra.

Considerations

• Researchers theorize that the prostate, which is pea-sized at birth but develops to the size of a walnut when a man is in his mid-20s, can grow because of hormonal changes. Aging also seems to play a part in the growth of the prostate.

Risk Factors

• Around half the male population has some sign of an enlarged prostate by age 60, with a family history making the chances higher that someone will develop this problem. Fewer Asian men statistically suffer from enlarged prostates than white and black men do.

Types

• An enlarged prostate puts pressure on the urethra and causes such problems as a weak stream of urine and the need to urinate often. Other symptoms include being unable to empty the bladder and difficulty when trying to begin urinating.

Warning

• The most serious complications of an enlarged prostate are the potential for infections of the urinary tract, bladder stones, damage to the bladder and urinary retention, in which a catheter is required for urination.

Prevention/Solution

• Enlarged prostate treatments include medications, such as alpha-blockers and enzyme inhibitors, along with microwave and laser therapies designed to shrink the gland. Surgery is necessary in some instances.