Prostatic enlargement due to BPH is a noncancerous
condition that can be a natural consequence of aging.
As the prostate becomes larger, the tube that carries
urine from the bladder to the tip of the penis (the
urethra) may becomepartially or even completely
pinched off. This happens because the urethra passes
through the prostate on its way to the penis. While
some men experience urinary problems when the urethra
is partially obstructed, others do not.
It is important to be checked periodically by your
doctor, especially if you are 60 years of age or
older, in order to keep track of any problems that
might develop due to BPH.
Obstruction
Prostate-related obstruction occurs when the passageway
between the urinary bladder and the penis is reduced
in diameter. This tube-like passageway, called
the urethra, can become partially or even completely
obstructed when the prostate enlarges due to BPH.
That's because the urethra passes through the
prostate on its way to the tip of the penis.
Some men experience bothersome symptoms when
the urethra is partially obstructed, while others
do not. If you are 60 years of age or older, it
is important to check in regularly with your doctor
to monitor the status of your prostate because
BPH is common in men over 60.
Non-Surgical Invasive Procedures
The bothersome symptoms of abnormal urination
associated with the prostate gland include increased
frequency of urination, excessive urination at
night, urgency, straining to urinate, hesitancy,
weak or intermittent stream, and a sensation of
incomplete emptying.
Not all men experience bothersome symptoms when
the prostate becomes enlarged. If you are 50 years
of age or older, it is important for you to check
in regularly with your doctor to monitor the status
of your prostate because BPH is common in men
over 50.
