Disclaimer: This guide is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
If you are experiencing an emergency, go to your nearest hospital or call 000.
What is it?
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), commonly known as an enlarged prostate, is a condition that becomes increasingly prevalent with age. The prostate is a small gland located just below the bladder which tends to enlarge as men grow older.
The prostate gland is part of the male reproductive system. It sits under the bladder and wraps around the top of the urethra, which is the tube that carries urine out of the bladder.
BPH is a gradual enlargement of the central part of the prostate which compresses the urethra, obstructing urine flow and resulting in various symptoms such as a weak urine stream, urgency, and nocturia (waking up during the night to urinate).
While some men with BPH may need medical or surgical treatment from a urologist at some stage, most are initially evaluated and managed by a general practitioner in a primary healthcare setting.
Risk factors for an enlarged prostate include ageing, as symptoms rarely appear before age 40 but increase afterwards; family history, with a higher likelihood if a close relative has prostate issues; and certain health conditions such as diabetes and heart disease, which studies show can elevate the risk of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Additionally, lifestyle factors play a role, with obesity increasing the risk and regular exercise helping to reduce it.
Complications
A healthcare provider will help manage benign prostatic hyperplasia by considering the severity of symptoms, the impact on your daily life, and your personal preferences. It’s important to speak to a doctor if your symptoms are bothering you, or affecting your quality of life. Most men with benign prostatic hyperplasia do not develop complications, however. they may include:
- Urinary retention
- Impaired kidney function
- Urinary tract infections
- Bladder stones
- Blood in the urine
Symptoms
Symptoms are often due to a blocked urethra or an overworked bladder. The severity of symptoms doesn’t always correlate with prostate size.
If you notice these symptoms, consult with a doctor:
- Changes in urine stream strength
- Difficulty starting urination or dribbling at the end
- Frequent or less frequent urination
- Inability to completely empty the bladder
- Poor urine flow
- Urgent need to urinate
- Waking up at night to urinate
Symptoms can worsen over time but may remain stable or improve. Symptoms can disrupt daily activities and cause distress.
If you can’t pass any urine, get medical help right away.
Normal prostate vs. enlarged prostate
How we can help
We provide a convenient and secure system for you to see a doctor from the comfort of your own home, or on the go with your smart device. You can have a video call on-demand by joining the queue for the next available doctor, or schedule an appointment at a time that suits you. We’re open every day, 24 hours a day – including public holidays – because we know illness and injury don’t adhere to conventional practice hours.
Much like a traditional appointment, your telehealth doctor will conduct a comprehensive assessment, including:
- pre-existing conditions, family history and lifestyle.
- preferred treatments and ability to access them.
- individualised advice to treat your condition.
- referrals or scripts at the discretion of the doctor.
Why choose doctors on demand?
Talk to a doctor about benign prostatic hyperplasia.
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