The most common symptoms of BPH are:

• Frequent urination, especially at night
• Difficulty starting to urinate
• Weak or interrupted urine stream
• A feeling of incomplete bladder emptying
• Dribbling after urination
• Pain or burning during urination

The exact cause of BPH is unknown, but it is thought to be due to a combination of factors, including:

• Age: BPH is more common in men over the age of 50.
• Family history: Men who have a family history of BPH are more likely to develop the condition.
• Race: BPH is more common in African American men than in white men.
• Obesity: Men who are obese are more likely to develop BPH.
• Medications: Some medications, such as alpha blockers and beta blockers, can increase the risk of BPH.

A doctor can diagnose BPH based on your medical history, a physical exam, and a urine test. The doctor may also order an ultrasound of the prostate to measure its size and see if it is blocking the urethra.

The treatment for BPH depends on the severity of your symptoms. Mild symptoms can often be managed with lifestyle changes, such as:

• Drinking less fluids before bed
• Avoiding caffeine and alcohol
• Losing weight
• Exercising regularly

If lifestyle changes do not relieve your symptoms, your doctor may prescribe medication. There are two main types of medications used to treat BPH:

• Alpha blockers: These medications relax the muscles in the prostate and urethra, making it easier to urinate.
• 5-alpha reductase inhibitors: These medications block the production of DHT, a hormone that is thought to contribute to BPH.

In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat BPH. There are several different types of surgery for BPH, and the best type for you will depend on your individual situation. These mainly include procedures to remove a part of the prostate that is blocking the waterpipe. Surgical procedures are very effective at treating your symptoms, but may have side effects.

If BPH is not treated, it can lead to complications, such as:

• Urinary tract infections
• Kidney stones
• Urinary retention: This is a condition in which you are unable to urinate.
• Incontinence: This is a condition in which you leak urine.

There is no sure way to prevent BPH, but there are some things you can do to reduce your risk, such as:

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Exercise regularly
• Eat a healthy diet
• Avoid smoking
• Limit your intake of alcohol and caffeine

If you are concerned about BPH, talk to your doctor.

Your doctor can help you determine if you have BPH and discuss the best treatment options for you.