Enlarged Prostate (BPH): What to Expect and What to Do

Got trouble peeing more often, weak stream, or that frustrating feeling of not emptying your bladder? Those are common signs of an enlarged prostate, also called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It’s not cancer, but it does affect quality of life for many men as they age. Here’s clear, practical info so you know when to act and what options usually work.

Quick symptoms to watch

Watch for these everyday signs: needing to pee frequently (especially at night), urgency (a sudden strong need), weak or interrupted stream, dribbling after urination, or feeling like your bladder isn’t empty. If you suddenly can’t urinate at all, or you have fever and pain with urination, get medical help right away.

Doctors usually ask about symptoms, do a digital rectal exam (DRE), and test urine. They may measure urine flow, check post-void residual (how much urine stays), and run a PSA blood test or ultrasound if needed. These tests help rule out infection, stones, or cancer as causes of symptoms.

What treatments look like

Treatment depends on how bad the symptoms are. If symptoms are mild, many men try watchful waiting plus lifestyle fixes: reduce evening fluids, cut back on caffeine and alcohol, and try timed voiding (going on schedule). Pelvic floor exercises can help too.

Medications are common next steps. Alpha-blockers like tamsulosin relax muscle around the prostate and bladder neck to improve flow—effects are quick but can cause dizziness or low blood pressure. 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors (finasteride, dutasteride) shrink the prostate over months and can reduce long-term risk of needing surgery, though sexual side effects occur in some men. Sometimes doctors combine both drug types.

When meds don’t work or symptoms are severe, procedures are available. Traditional surgery (TURP) removes obstructing tissue. Newer, less invasive options include UroLift (mechanical lift), Rezum (steam therapy), and laser enucleation. Each has trade-offs—talk through recovery time, risks, and impact on sexual function with your urologist.

If you’re buying meds online, only use reputable pharmacies and keep your doctor in the loop. BPH meds often need a prescription and follow-up. Avoid unverified sellers and be cautious of products promising instant cures.

Final tip: track symptoms for a week—note how often you go, leakage, and any blood or pain. That info helps your clinician decide fast. And don’t ignore sudden inability to urinate or fever with urinary problems—those need immediate care.