Benign prostatic hyperplasia

Benign prostatic hyperplasia is noncancerous growth of prostate tissue, common with aging. When it compresses the urethra, it can obstruct urine flow and cause lower urinary tract symptoms.

Prostatic transition zone: The prostate region surrounding the proximal urethra where most benign prostatic hyperplasia develops. Growth here can squeeze the urethra and obstruct urine flow.
Watchful waiting: A management strategy involving observation and periodic reassessment without immediate active treatment. Mild symptoms may be monitored when they cause little bother or risk.
Prostate cancer: A malignant tumor arising in prostate tissue, with behavior ranging from slow-growing to aggressive. It is distinct from benign enlargement, though the conditions can coexist.
Nocturia: Waking from sleep one or more times to urinate. Frequent nighttime urination is a common symptom that disrupts sleep.
Lower urinary tract symptoms: A group of urinary storage, voiding, and post-void symptoms arising from lower urinary tract dysfunction. These symptoms are the main way prostate enlargement becomes clinically apparent.
Alpha blocker: A medication that blocks alpha-adrenergic receptors to relax smooth muscle in selected tissues. Relaxing prostate and bladder-neck muscle can improve urine flow relatively quickly.
Prostatitis: Inflammation of the prostate, sometimes caused by bacterial infection and often associated with pelvic or urinary symptoms. Inflammation can cause similar urinary complaints without benign tissue growth.
Urinary tract infection: An infection involving any part of the urinary system, including the bladder or kidneys. Incomplete emptying can increase susceptibility to infection.
Bladder outlet obstruction: Impaired urine flow caused by resistance at the bladder outlet. Enlarged prostate tissue can create this obstruction by compressing the urethra.
5-alpha-reductase inhibitor: A medication that reduces conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone. These drugs can shrink an enlarged prostate and lower future retention risk.

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