What are the symptoms of an enlarged prostate (BPH)?

The most common symptoms of an enlarged prostate (BPH) include frequent urination, especially at night, difficulty starting urination, a weak urine stream, urgency, and the feeling that the bladder is not completely empty. These symptoms develop gradually and can affect a man's daily routine and quality of life.

An enlarged prostate (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia or BPH) develops gradually, so symptoms often become more noticeable over time. As the prostate enlarges, it puts pressure on the urethra, making it more difficult for urine to pass from the bladder.

The most common symptoms include:

1. Frequent Urination

Men with BPH often need to urinate more frequently than usual, both during the day and at night.

2. Waking Up Frequently at Night (Nocturia)

Getting up multiple times during the night to urinate is one of the earliest and most common symptoms of an enlarged prostate.

3. Difficulty Starting Urination

Some men notice that it takes longer to begin urinating, even when they feel the urge.

4. Weak or Slow Urine Stream

As the enlarged prostate narrows the urethra, urine flow may become weak, slow, or interrupted.

5. Feeling That the Bladder Is Not Empty

Even after urinating, many men feel that some urine remains in the bladder, leading to repeated trips to the bathroom.

6. Sudden Urge to Urinate

BPH may cause a strong and sudden urge to urinate that can be difficult to control.

7. Dribbling After Urination

Some men experience leakage or dribbling of urine after finishing urination.

When Should You See a Urologist?

Although these symptoms are commonly caused by BPH, they may also occur due to urinary tract infections, bladder problems, or prostate cancer. You should consult a urologist if you experience:

• Blood in the urine.
• Pain while urinating.
• Inability to pass urine.
• Recurrent urinary tract infections.
• Symptoms that interfere with daily life or sleep.

Early diagnosis allows your doctor to identify the cause and recommend the most appropriate treatment before complications develop.

SCI International Hospital / Dr. Gautam Banga

At SCI International Hospital, New Delhi, Dr. Gautam Banga, Senior Consultant Urologist and Andrologist, specializes in evaluating and treating men with enlarged prostate (BPH). Using advanced diagnostic techniques, he identifies the underlying cause of urinary symptoms and offers personalized treatment options, including medications and minimally invasive laser prostate surgery, to improve urinary function and quality of life.