BPH Is Common: 5 Signs You May Have an Enlarged Prostate

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or enlarged prostate, occurs when the prostate gland grows larger and disrupts urinary system function. It's the most common prostate problem in men, affecting around 45% of men 45 and rising sharply with age. Most men experience BPH in time, but it’s a treatable condition.

Understanding and managing BPH requires attentive care from an expert — and that's where Urology Specialists of Cypress comes in. Our board-certified urologist, Dr. James Stocks, specializes in BPH diagnosis and management, tailored to men’s unique needs in our Cypress, Texas, office.

BPH management is easiest and most effective when you catch the symptoms early. It can save you months and years of discomfort! Here’s what you need to know:

Frequent urination

The prostate gland surrounds the urethra (the tube that urine travels through to leave the body). With BPH, the prostate gland starts squeezing the urethra, and it can also pressure the bladder just above it.  

The extra pressure can cause increased bladder sensitivity, along with frequent urges to urinate, particularly at night.

Weak urine stream

When the enlarged prostate gland squeezes the urethra, it narrows the tube. This can reduce urine flow strength and make it feel like you're straining to empty your bladder fully.

Difficulty starting to urinate

Beyond weakening your urine stream, the prostate gland can grow large enough to make it harder to start urinating in the first place. Having to strain to urinate can be quite uncomfortable and frustrating.

Incomplete bladder emptying

BPH may make it difficult to fully empty your bladder, leading to a lingering feeling you still need to go. Residual urine in the bladder is more susceptible to bacteria buildup, increasing the risk of urinary tract infections and discomfort.

Dribbling after urination

Because BPH can cause reduced urine flow and incomplete bladder emptying, it can also lead to dribbling, in which urine continues to leak in tiny amounts after you’ve finished urinating.

BPH treatment options

If you have BPH, there's no need to live with urinary symptoms. Dr. Stocks creates customized treatments for every man. In most cases, nonsurgical approaches like lifestyle changes, medication, and office-based procedures can improve urine flow and ease symptoms.

With severe BPH that doesn't improve with conservative care, surgery to remove part or all of the prostate can offer long-term relief.

BPH solutions in Cypress

If you’re experiencing symptoms of BPH, don't let them worsen. Call Urology Specialists of Cypress at 281-304-2521 to schedule an appointment in our Cypress office.