Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition in men as they age in which the prostrate becomes enlarged.  Approximately 50% of men have evidence of BPH by age 50 and 75% by age 80.  In 40-50% of men it becomes a clinical issue.  BPH can cause bothersome urinary symptoms, and over time, BPH can block the flow of urine and cause severe bladder, urinary tract and kidney problems.  In worse cases, BPH can develop into prostrate cancer.

As the prostrate grows larger with a man’s age, it squeezes the urethra (which carries urine and semen), and this can cause partial or complete blockage of the urethra, interfering with the normal flow of urine.  It also compresses the bladder, which can cause less urine to be stored and a more urgent need to urinate.

Men, do you have signs of BPH?  Quiz your prostrate:

•          Weak urine stream
•           Difficulty starting urination
•           Stopping and starting while urinating
•           Dribbling at the end of urination
•           Frequent or urgent need to urinate
•           Increased frequency of urination at night
•           Straining while urinating
•           Not being able to completely empty the bladder
•           Urinary tract infection
•           Formation of stones in the bladder
•           Reduced kidney function

Source: The Canadian Continence Foundation.

If this is a concern for you or someone you know, I can help just let me know.