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The prostate gland is located underneath the bladder and is
about the size of a chestnut. Part of the urethra is encased within
the prostate gland. As a man ages, the prostate typically enlarges
in size in a process called benign hypertrophy (non-cancerous
enlargement).
The enlarged prostate crowds its surrounding structures and may
cause the urethra to narrow. The narrowed urethra results in
several of the symptoms of benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH).
Symptoms may include a slowed or delayed start in urination, the
need to urinate frequently during the night, difficulty in emptying
the bladder, a strong, sudden urge to urinate, and incontinence.
Less than half of all men with BPH have symptoms of the disease, or
their symptoms are minor and do not restrict their life
style.
BPH is a normal physiological process of aging and treatment
options are available. The choice of the appropriate treatment is
based on the severity of the symptoms, the extent to which they
effect lifestyle, and the presence of other medical conditions. Men
with BPH should consult with their physician yearly to monitor the
progression of the symptoms and decide the best course of treatment
as needed.
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