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Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
BPH is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that is common as men age. The larger prostate presses on the urine tube, causing bothersome urinary symptoms.
Causes & risk factors
- Natural prostate growth with increasing age
- Hormonal changes with ageing
- Family history
- Not a cause of, or the same as, prostate cancer
Common symptoms
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Weak or interrupted urine stream
- Difficulty starting to urinate
- Feeling the bladder is not empty
- Urgency
- Dribbling after urination
Tests & diagnosis
- Prostate examination (DRE)
- PSA
- Urine test
- Ultrasound with post-void residual
- Creatinine
Treatment & management
- Lifestyle measures — reducing evening fluids and caffeine
- Medicines to relax the prostate or shrink it
- Regular monitoring for mild symptoms
- Surgical procedures (such as TURP) for troublesome cases
- Treating any complications like retention or infection
When to see a doctor urgently
- Being suddenly unable to pass urine — emergency
- Blood in the urine
- Repeated urine infections
- Symptoms affecting sleep and daily life
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about benign prostatic hyperplasia (bph). It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Does an enlarged prostate mean cancer?
No. BPH is a benign enlargement and is not cancer, though both can occur with age. A prostate exam and PSA help tell them apart.
Can BPH be treated without surgery?
Often yes. Lifestyle changes and medicines control symptoms for many men. Surgery is reserved for severe symptoms or complications.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.