Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. As the prostate grows, it can press against the urethra and bladder, causing urinary symptoms such as weak urine flow, difficulty starting urination, frequent nighttime urination, or a feeling of incomplete emptying. BPH becomes more common with age and can range from mild to significantly bothersome.
What is it?
Benign prostatic hyperplasia occurs when the prostate gland gradually grows larger with age. This enlargement can obstruct the urethra—the tube that carries urine out of the body—leading to a variety of urinary symptoms. While the condition is benign and not prostate cancer, both conditions can coexist, making proper evaluation important.
Imaging can show an enlarged prostate, bladder wall thickening from chronic obstruction, and the presence of residual urine after voiding. Although BPH is typically diagnosed by clinical evaluation, CT or MRI may reveal the condition during imaging for urinary or pelvic concerns.
Important to Know
BPH is not cancer and does not increase the risk of prostate cancer. However, moderate or severe symptoms can impact sleep, comfort, and quality of life. Treatments range from medications that relax or shrink the prostate to procedures that improve urine flow.
Red flag symptoms include inability to urinate, blood in the urine, severe lower abdominal pain, fever, or signs of kidney problems—these may indicate obstruction or infection and require urgent medical evaluation. Follow-up testing may be recommended to monitor prostate size or symptom progression.