What is BPH?
BPH or benign prostatic hyperplasia is just a fancy name for an enlarged prostate. BPH occurs in most men as they age. It is considered a normal part of the aging process, caused by hormonal changes and cell growth.
The prostate gland surrounds the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body. An enlarged prostate can put pressure on the urethra and cause difficulties urinating.
In a rare number of cases, BPH can cause the bladder to be blocked, making it nearly impossible to urinate. This problem may cause backed-up urine (urinary retention), which can lead to severe bladder infections or kidney damage.
BPH does not cause prostate cancer. It does not cause erectile dysfunction, nor does it affect a man's ability to father children.
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