What Are the Signs of an Enlarged Prostate?

The Most Common Symptom? Urinary Problems in Men

Recognising the signs that you have an enlarged prostate early can help you take steps to maintain your prostate health. While symptoms of an enlarged prostate are often subtle at first and can vary between patients, there are several common indicators. Here are some symptoms to be mindful of:

• Difficulty starting to urinate – You may find that initiating the flow of urine takes longer than it should, which can be inconvenient and uncomfortable.
• A weak urine stream – The flow of urine may be slower or less forceful, making it difficult to completely empty your bladder.
• Stopping and starting while urinating – The urine stream may be interrupted and lead to a noticeable stop-and-start pattern during trips to the toilet.
• A sense of incomplete emptying – Even after urination, you might feel like your bladder hasn’t entirely emptied, which could interfere with your everyday quality of life.
• Frequent urination – You might find yourself visiting the toilet more often, especially during the night, which could disrupt your sleep patterns.
• An urgent need to urinate – Strong and sudden urges to urinate might occur, leading to moments where it becomes difficult to delay going to the toilet.
• Dribbling after urination – Some individuals experience residual leakage of urine even after finishing urination, which can be an annoying and bothersome issue.

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) refers to a non-cancerous growth of the prostate gland that becomes increasingly common in men over the age of 50. This enlargement can press against the urethra, making it harder for urine to flow smoothly. Typical symptoms include difficulty starting urination, a weaker or interrupted stream, and dribbling towards the end. Some men notice they pass urine more frequently, both during the day and at night, often accompanied by a sudden, strong urge to go. If left untreated, BPH may lead to complications such as urinary tract infections, bladder stones, or issues with kidney function.

Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is a major health concern for men, with around one in eight developing it at some stage in their life. The early stages typically present no noticeable symptoms, as the cancer often begins in the outer part of the prostate away from the urethra. Some men may experience signs resembling benign prostatic hyperplasia, such as interrupted urine flow, while others could notice blood in the urine or semen, persistent back or hip pain, difficulty achieving an erection, or unexplained weight loss.

Though the exact causes remain unclear, factors like age, family history, and ethnicity increase the risk of developing prostate cancer. Men are encouraged to visit their local men’s health clinic if they have concerns, where they can discuss potential screening options such as the PSA blood test.

Our Approach to Prostate Diagnosis and Treatment

Our skilled men’s health specialists at Sussex Premier Health leverage state-of-the-art strategies to evaluate and manage prostate conditions. Below are three effective ways we provide prostate treatment in a supportive environment:

Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP)

This widely performed surgical procedure is ideal for men with significant urinary symptoms due to an enlarged prostate. During the process, a surgeon uses a resectoscope to carefully remove excess prostate tissue that is obstructing urine flow. This procedure can drastically improve bladder function while reducing the risk of urinary retention and infections. Recovery typically occurs within a few weeks, with most patients experiencing notable symptom relief after the surgery.

UroLift®

UroLift® is a minimally invasive option for men experiencing difficulty urinating caused by an enlarged prostate. Using small, implantable devices, the UroLift® system repositions prostate tissue to widen the urethra and improve urine flow. Recovery is typically quick, as this outpatient procedure avoids cutting or removing any tissue. Men undergoing UroLift® often return to their daily activities within just a few days, making it a great option for those looking for faster relief.

Medications and Lifestyle Adjustments

For some men, non-surgical options can effectively manage their prostate enlargement symptoms. Medications like alpha-blockers can help relax the prostate and bladder muscles, while 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors can work to shrink the gland over time.

Alongside these treatments, adopting healthier lifestyle habits, such as eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and improving bathroom routines, can offer additional benefits for both prostate and overall health. It’s always best to consult a doctor to find the most suitable approach for your needs.