The prostate gland is an important part of the male reproductive system. It is located just below the bladder, in front of the rectum, and surrounds the urethra. In younger men, the prostate is about the size of a walnut.
But as men get older, the prostate often gets bigger. This condition, called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is common and tends to increase with age.
What Is BPH, and What Causes It?
BPH, also known as an enlarged prostate, is the excessive growth of prostate tissue. It doesn't mean you have cancer, nor does it increase your risk of developing prostate cancer. BPH is thought to be caused by hormonal changes that occur as men age.
BPH typically becomes more common in men in their 40s or 50s and can cause a variety of urinary symptoms, often referred to as lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). While BPH itself isn't usually painful, the enlarged prostate can sometimes press on surrounding areas, causing tenderness or discomfort.
Enlarged Prostate Symptoms That Can Cause Pain
Although BPH doesn't usually cause severe pain, it can cause uncomfortable symptoms. For example, as the prostate enlarges, it can put pressure on the urethra (the tube that carries urine out of the body) or the bladder.
This pressure can cause various symptoms that may be mildly painful or just annoying, including:
Urine retention (inability to empty the bladder completely)
Difficulty starting to urinate
Straining to urinate
Frequent or urgent need to pass urine
Occasional blood in the urine
When BPH symptoms become more severe, they can sometimes lead to complications such as urinary tract infections, prostatitis (an infection of the prostate gland), kidney stones, or kidney failure.
Mild symptoms can often be treated with lifestyle changes, but moderate to severe symptoms may require medication or even surgery.
Treatment Options for BPH
There's no permanent cure for BPH other than removal of the prostate. However, many treatments can help reduce the size of the prostate or relieve symptoms in the short and long term. These options include:
Lifestyle changes: Certain habits can help manage BPH, such as maintaining a healthy weight, getting regular exercise, reducing stress, and eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Drinking alcohol in moderation, reducing caffeine, and emptying the bladder completely each time you urinate can also help.
Medication: Several medications can help by either shrinking the prostate (5-alpha reductase inhibitors) or relaxing the muscles around the urethra (alpha blockers), making it easier to urinate.
Surgery: If lifestyle changes and medications don't work, surgery is another option. Several minimally invasive procedures can help relieve symptoms and improve urine flow.
Managing Pain with BPH
While pain isn't common with BPH, some men may experience discomfort in the groin, lower abdomen, or pelvic area. This pain is usually caused by the prostate putting pressure on surrounding tissue or causing a blockage in the flow of urine. If you have pain or discomfort, see your doctor.
He or she may perform an exam and order tests, such as a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test or imaging, to better understand the cause of your symptoms.
Tips for Managing BPH Discomfort
Here are some simple tips to help manage BPH-related pain or discomfort:
Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids helps keep urine flowing and reduces the risk of infection.
Limit caffeine and alcohol: These can irritate the bladder and make symptoms worse.
Empty your bladder completely: Avoid rushing to urinate, as emptying your bladder completely each time can help prevent discomfort.
Avoid straining: Straining can put extra pressure on the prostate and bladder, which can make symptoms worse.
See your doctor: If symptoms don't improve or cause significant discomfort, talk to your healthcare provider.
When to See a Doctor
If BPH symptoms, including discomfort or pain, are affecting your quality of life, it's important to see your doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications and improve daily comfort.
Mild cases can be treated with lifestyle changes, while more moderate symptoms may require medication. In severe cases, surgery may be needed to relieve symptoms.
Although BPH is not cancer and does not increase the risk of cancer, it's important to monitor your prostate health. Routine tests, such as a digital rectal exam (DRE) or PSA test, can help detect any changes early.
Lifestyle choices, family history, and environmental factors all play a role in your chances of developing BPH, so if pain or discomfort is ever a concern, don't hesitate to speak with a healthcare professional.
Notice any of these signs?
✔️ A weak or interrupted urine flow
✔️ Frequent, urgent trips to the bathroom
✔️ Difficulty fully emptying your bladder
If any of these apply to you, you may have benign prostatic hyperplasia(BPH).
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*Disclaimer: This article is not intended to be medical advice. This information should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.
ref.
Johns Hopkins Medicine, Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
Cleveland Clinic, Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): Symptoms & Treatment