Prostate Enlargement: What Every Man Should Know

Prostate enlargement is a common condition in men, especially after the age of 40–50. Although it often causes concern, in most cases it is not cancer, but rather a natural process associated with aging. Understanding what it is, why it happens, and how it can be treated is key to maintaining a good quality of life.

What Is the Prostate and What Is Its Function?

The prostate is a gland about the size of a walnut, located below the bladder and in front of the rectum. Its main function is to produce part of the seminal fluid, which helps protect and nourish sperm.

As men age, the prostate may increase in size and press against the urethra (the tube through which urine passes), leading to various urinary symptoms.

What Is Prostate Enlargement?

Prostate enlargement, medically known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is a non-cancerous increase in the size of the prostate.
It is a very common condition:

• More than 50% of men over the age of 50 have it
• Up to 80% of men over the age of 70 experience some degree of prostate enlargement

Main Symptoms

Symptoms can range from mild to severe and usually develop gradually:

• Difficulty starting urination
• Weak or interrupted urine stream
• Feeling that the bladder does not empty completely
• Increased urinary frequency, especially at night (nocturia)
• Urgency to urinate
• Dribbling after urination

👉 It is important to note that the severity of symptoms does not always correlate with the size of the prostate.

Why Does Prostate Enlargement Occur?

Although the exact cause is not fully understood, it is mainly associated with:

• Age-related hormonal changes
• A relative increase in estrogen levels in adult men
• Genetic factors
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Overweight and poor diet

Diagnosis

Diagnosis usually includes:

• Medical history and symptom evaluation
• Digital rectal examination
• Blood tests (PSA)
• Urine tests
• Prostate ultrasound
• Urinary flow studies (uroflowmetry)

Early diagnosis helps prevent complications such as urinary tract infections, urinary retention, or kidney damage.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms:

1. Active Surveillance

In mild cases, monitoring and lifestyle changes may be sufficient.

2. Medical Treatment

• Alpha-blockers (to improve urine flow)
• 5-alpha reductase inhibitors (to reduce prostate size)

3. Surgical Treatment

Recommended when symptoms are severe or complications arise. Both minimally invasive techniques and traditional surgeries are available.

Lifestyle Changes That Can Help

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Engage in regular physical activity
• Reduce alcohol and caffeine intake
• Avoid drinking fluids before bedtime
• Do not delay urination
• Follow a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats

When Should You See a Doctor?

You should consult a specialist if:

• There is persistent difficulty urinating
• Recurrent urinary tract infections occur
• Pain, blood in the urine, or urinary retention is present
• Symptoms significantly affect quality of life