Enlarged Prostate
An enlarged prostate – also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) – is the most common cause of bladder problems in men as they mature.
Typically, the prostate gland continues to grow in adult life making BPH common in men over the age of 50. As the prostate gland continues to get larger, it impacts the bladder and can press the urethra, limiting or blocking the flow of urine.
With an enlarged prostate and narrow urethra, limitations to completely empty the bladder or urinary retention can cause uncomfortable urinary symptoms from mild to life‐threatening. This can affect men in different ways but ultimately there are two types of urinary retention: Chronic and Acute.
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Chronic urine retention
Chronic urine retention develops over time. Those with chronic urinary retention can urinate but cannot completely empty the urine from their bladder due to the narrowed urethra. The leftover urine creates pressure in the bladder which can slowly stretch the bladder muscle and become weak. -
Acute urine retention
Acute urine retention is a more significant, uncomfortable, and potentially life‐threatening condition that should be addressed with a healthcare professional right away. Symptoms include severe abdominal pain and the inability to urinate.
Taking control of your symptoms
Not all men need treatment for BPH. Treatment options usually depend on symptoms, age, overall health, and the prostate size. Options for treatment can range from adjustments in lifestyle to medications, to medical procedures, or surgery. Recommendations from a healthcare professional may also include the use of an intermittent catheter.
Using an intermittent catheter to regularly and fully empty the bladder may help avoid urinary retention symptoms or complications. Self‐catheterization can provide many men who have an enlarged prostate with the control they want over their bladder symptoms.
Speaking with a healthcare professional is most important to discuss what options may be best for you.
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