For men over 50, the most common prostate problem is prostate enlargement, also called benign prostatic hyperplasia (buh-NYN prah-STAT-ihk HEYE-pur-PLAY-zhuh). As the prostate grows, it squeezes the urethra, causing urinary problems. Some of these problems include:
- A frequent and urgent need to urinate
- Trouble starting a urine stream, even though you feel you have to rush to get to the bathroom
- A weak stream of urine
- A small amount of urine each time you go
- The feeling that you still have to go, even when you have just finished urinating
- Waking up to urinate more than once or twice a night
- Leaking or dribbling urine
- Small amounts of blood in your urine
It’s a good idea to talk to your doctor if you have symptoms of prostate enlargement. Your doctor might suggest that you “wait and see” if your symptoms don’t bother you too much. Or, you can discuss treatment options if symptoms are or become so bothersome that you can’t enjoy life.
Source: the Office on Women’s Health in the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health