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What Is an Enlarged Prostate?

The prostate gland is the male organ that produces semen and carries sperm during ejaculation. The gland surrounds the urethra (the tube that pumps out urine from the bladder) and is tucked away beneath the bladder. When the prostate becomes enlarged it can strain the urethra and cause urination difficulties. The medical term for prostate gland enlargement is benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH. An enlarged prostate is not connected to the development of prostate cancer.

  1. Some Midlife Growth is Normal

    • As men enter middle age, most will experience some prostate growth. During the middle to late 40s, cells in the middle portion duplicate at a swifter pace, resulting in an enlarged prostate gland. This growth can cause pressure on the urethra and to some extent block the flow of urine.

    Urinary Symptoms

    • When the prostate becomes enlarged, there may be numerous urinary issues. There may be problems with starting urination, the flow may periodically start and stop and the stream of urine may be weak followed by dribbling at the end.

      There may also be a sense of urgency to urinate and an increased frequency, especially at night. An enlarged prostate may also cause blood in the urine, and increases the possibility of developing a urinary tract infection.

    Enlargement May Vary

    • The seriousness of prostate gland growth can differ among men and it isn't necessarily problematic.

      According to the Mayo Clinic, only about 50 percent of men with prostate gland enlargement have detectable symptoms that are troubling enough to see a health care provider.

    Minor Symptoms Should be Evaluated

    • Even when urinary symptoms are slight, it's wise to have them checked out by a doctor to confirm that another condition isn't present. Urinary difficulties can be caused by several other problems, including bladder infections, heart failure, diabetes, inflammation of the prostate and possibly prostate cancer.

    Self-Care for Mild Symptoms

    • The National Institute of Health provides a list of self-care suggestions that may help reduce or eliminate mild symptoms of an enlarged prostate. The NIH says don't ignore the urge to urinate and go the bathroom whenever possible, even if you don't have an urge to urinate.

      Also, spread your intake of fluids out over the course of the day and refrain from drinking at least two hours prior to bedtime.

      It may help to learn how to do pelvic strengthening movements (kegal exercises).

      Finally, try to refrain from taking over-the-counter products that contain antihistamines and decongestants. They may worsen the symptoms of an enlarged prostate.

    Traditional Treatments

    • Treatments for prostate gland enlargement depend on the type and severity of your symptoms. Medications, such as alpha blockers, are the most common method for controlling moderate symptoms of prostate enlargement.

      These drugs treat enlarged prostate symptoms by relaxing the muscles around the neck of your bladder, making urination easier.

      Nowadays, surgery is generally reserved for the most severe signs and symptoms of an enlarged prostate. However, it remains the most effective treatment.

    Herbal Remedies

    • The Mayo Clinic says there are a handful of herbal treatments that may help lessen the symptoms of an enlarged prostate. They include saw palmetto, beta sitosterol and pygeum. Since the Food and Drug Administration does not oversee the manufacturing of herbs, there is no guarantee of their effectiveness or safety.

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