The term "enlarged prostate," also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), refers to a condition in which the prostate gland becomes larger than normal. The prostate is a small, walnut-shaped gland located below the bladder and in front of the rectum in men. Its primary function is to produce seminal fluid that nourishes sperm during ejaculation.
As men age, the cells within the prostate gland multiply, causing it to enlarge. This can lead to a variety of symptoms such as difficulty urinating, frequent urination, and weak flow of urine. In some cases, BPH can also cause bladder stones or kidney damage if left untreated.
While the exact cause of BPH is unknown, it is more common in men over 50 years old and can be hereditary. Treatment options for enlarged prostate include medication to reduce symptoms, surgery to remove excess tissue or improve urine flow, and minimally invasive procedures such as laser therapy or radiofrequency ablation.