Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a noncancerous prostate problem in which the normal elements of the prostate gland enlarge and grow in number. Their sheer bulk may compress the urethra, which courses through the center of the prostate, impeding the flow of urine from the bladder through the urethra to the outside. This leads to urine retention and the need for frequent urination. If benign prostatic hyperplasia is severe, complete blockage can occur.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia leads to the following symptoms:

• a weak or interrupted stream when urinating;

• a feeling that you cannot empty your bladder completely;

• a feeling of delay when you start to urinate;

• a need to urinate often, especially at night;

• a feeling that you must urinate right away.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia generally begins in a man's 30s, evolves slowly, and causes symptoms only after age 50. BPH is very common. Half of men over age 50 develop symptoms of BPH, but only 10% need medical or surgical intervention. Watchful waiting with annual medical monitoring is appropriate for most men with benign prostatic hyperplasia. Medical therapy includes drugs such as Proscar (Finasteride) and Hytrin (Terazosin).

Proscar (Finasteride) is indicated for the treatment of symptomatic BPH with an enlarged prostate to improve symptoms, reduce the risk of acute urinary retention and to reduce the risk of the need for surgery including transurethral resection of the prostate and prostatectomy.

Hytrin (Terazosin) relaxes the tightness of a certain type of muscle in the prostate and at the opening of the bladder. This can reduce the severity of the symptoms.

Prostate surgery has traditionally been seen as offering the most benefits and the most risks for BPH. Benign prostatic hyperplasia is not a sign of prostate cancer. It is also known as benign prostatic hypertrophy and nodular hyperplasia of the prostate.