Enlarged Prostate: When to Talk with a Urologist

Many men notice changes in their urinary habits as they get older. Waking up more often at night, struggling to start urination or feeling like the bladder never fully empties can be frustrating and disruptive. While these symptoms are common, they are not something you simply have to live with.

One possible cause is benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate that affects many men as they age.

The prostate is a gland located below the bladder that surrounds the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body. As the prostate grows, it can place pressure on the urethra and affect the normal flow of urine.

Although BPH is relatively common and is not cancer, it can impact daily life and, in some cases, lead to bladder problems or other complications if left untreated.

If you are experiencing urinary symptoms and want to talk to a doctor, call our Urology clinic for an appointment at 209-368-6661.

Signs and symptoms of BPH

BPH becomes more common with age, especially for men over 50. Symptoms can vary from person to person and may include:

• Frequent urination, during the day or night
• Trouble starting urination
• A weak or slow urine stream
• Feeling like the bladder does not empty completely
• Sudden urges to urinate
• Dribbling after urination
• Recurrent urinary tract infections

If symptoms are affecting your daily life, a urology provider can help determine what is causing them and talk with you about treatment options. Depending on your situation, BPH may be diagnosed with a medical history, physical exam, and symptom review. Testing may include urine tests, blood work, including a prostate specific antigen (PSA) test, ultrasound, or a bladder scan to measure urine remaining after urination.

Treatment options

Treatment depends on your symptoms and personal goals. For mild symptoms, your provider may recommend monitoring the condition through regular follow-up visits. Other options may include:

• Medicines that help relax prostate muscles or shrink the prostate
• Minimally invasive procedures
• Surgical treatment to improve urine flow

Your urology team can help you understand the benefits and risks of each option and develop a treatment plan that’s right for you.

When to seek care

Talk with a provider if your symptoms are becoming more frequent or are interfering with your quality of life.

Seek care right away if you:

• Suddenly cannot urinate
• Notice blood or clots in your urine
• Feel light-headed or faint
• Have severe pain in your lower back or side

If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or visit the nearest emergency room.

If you are experiencing symptoms of an enlarged prostate, our team is here to help. Call Adventist Health Urology to schedule an appointment at 209-368-6661.