Enlarged Prostate (BPH): Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is noncancerous enlargement of the prostate. It becomes more common with age and can affect urination.
Common symptoms
NIDDK lists trouble starting urination, weak or interrupted stream, dribbling, nocturia, urgency, frequency and pain during urination among possible BPH symptoms.
Symptoms are not a diagnosis
The same complaints can occur with bladder problems, urinary tract infection, prostatitis or prostate cancer. Symptom severity also does not map perfectly to prostate size.
How clinicians evaluate BPH
Evaluation can include medical history, physical examination and tests such as urinalysis, PSA testing when appropriate, urodynamic testing, cystoscopy or ultrasound depending on the situation.
Treatment pathways
NIDDK describes watchful waiting, lifestyle changes, medicines, minimally invasive therapies and surgery. Choice depends on symptoms, quality-of-life impact and complications.
Sources & editorial basis
Last reviewed: August 29, 2026. Health information is educational and is not a diagnosis or treatment recommendation.