Enlarged Prostate

The prostate gland located below the bladder, produces prostatic fluid secreted during ejaculation. Most men over the age of 60 have an enlarged prostate also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). By the age of 85, ninety-five percent of men have BPH. However, approximately 1/3 experience symptoms. Symptoms related to the condition are: frequent urination, difficulty or even inability to urine at all. As the prostate enlarges, it places pressure on the urethra making it more difficult for urine to flow from the bladder, causing the bladder to contract. This creates the urge to urinate frequently even though there may only be minimal urine in the bladder. Some symptoms may include taking longer to initiate a urine stream, urinating with a weaker flow, dribbling after urination and the sensation that urine remains in the bladder post urination. One of the more severe symptoms is the inability to urinate. If the prostate gland is enlarged, it can place pressure and block the urethra. This could happen as well if infections and weakness of bladder muscles occur. The inability to urinate could permanently damage the kidneys. If such occurs, a trip to the emergency room would be a necessity.