By Mercura Wang
|
April 26, 2026Updated:April 26, 2026
Medically reviewed byJimmy Almond, M.D.
Many men notice that they need to urinate more frequently as they get older. This is often due to an enlarged prostate, a condition also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
The prostate gland naturally grows throughout a man’s adult life. BPH occurs when it becomes enlarged beyond normal size, placing pressure on the bladder and narrowing the urethra—the tube that carries urine out of the body.
BPH is the most common prostate condition in men over 50, affecting about 5 percent of men aged 40 to 64 and rising to over 30 percent of men over 65. However, it can often be managed through lifestyle changes, medications, and, when necessary, surgery.
What Are the Symptoms and Early Signs of Enlarged Prostate?
BPH is not cancer. It does not spread to other parts of the body, not life-threatening, and generally not considered a health concern unless it begins to cause noticeable symptoms.
Common symptoms include:
- Frequent Urination, Especially at Night (Nocturia): Because the bladder does not empty completely, men may need to urinate more often, including multiple times during the night.
- Weak or Reduced Urinary Flow: The force and volume of urine may decrease, slowing the stream and sometimes causing strain.
- Difficulty Urinating: Men may feel the urge to urinate but find it difficult to initiate the flow.
- Urgent Need to Urinate: The sensation of needing to urinate can become sudden and strong, making it difficult to delay.
- Incomplete Bladder Emptying: Even after urinating, there may be a lingering sensation that the bladder is not fully emptied.
- Intermittent Flow: A stop-start pattern during urination can occur due to partial blockage of the urethra.
- Dribbling at the End of Urination: After finishing, urine may continue to leak slightly.
- Pain During Urination or After Ejaculation: Pain or discomfort in the groin, lower abdomen, or pelvic area may occur when an enlarged prostate puts pressure on surrounding tissues or causes urinary obstruction.
Source: