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Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) — also called prostate gland enlargement — is a common condition as men get older. An enlarged prostate gland can cause uncomfortable urinary symptoms, such as blocking the flow of urine out of the bladder. It can also cause bladder, urinary tract or kidney problems.
The symptoms of BPH are often very mild at first, but they become more serious if they aren’t treated. Common symptoms include:
- incomplete bladder emptying
- nocturia, which is the need to urinate two or more times per night
- dribbling at the end of your urinary stream
- incontinence, or leakage of urine
- straining when urinating
- a weak urinary stream
- a sudden urge to urinate
- a slowed or delayed urinary stream
- painful urination
- blood in the urine
Talk with your doctor if you have any of these symptoms. They’re treatable, and treating them often can help prevent complications.
Risk factors for prostate gland enlargement include:
- Aging. Prostate gland enlargement rarely causes signs and symptoms in men younger than age 40. About one-third of men experience moderate to severe symptoms by age 60, and about half do so by age 80.
- Family history. Having a blood relative, such as a father or a brother, with prostate problems means you're more likely to have problems.
- Diabetes and heart disease. Studies show that diabetes, as well as heart disease and use of beta blockers, might increase the risk of BPH.
- Lifestyle. Obesity increases the risk of BPH, while exercise can lower your risk.
Natural treatment can include specific actions or lifestyle changes that you can make to help relieve your symptoms of BPH. These include:
- urinating as soon as you feel the urge
- going to the bathroom to urinate, even when you don’t feel the urge
- avoiding over-the-counter decongestants or antihistamine medications, which can make it harder for the bladder to empty
- avoiding alcohol and caffeine, especially in the hours after dinner
- reducing your stress level, as nervousness can increase the frequency of urination
- exercising regularly, as a lack of exercise can aggravate your symptoms
- learning and practicing Kegel exercises to strengthen your pelvic muscles
- keeping warm, since being cold can make symptoms worse
When to see a doctor
If you're having urinary problems, discuss them with your doctor. Even if you don't find urinary symptoms bothersome, it's important to identify or rule out any underlying causes. Untreated, urinary problems might lead to obstruction of the urinary tract.
If you're unable to pass any urine, seek immediate medical attention.
References:
Mayo Clinic
Healthline