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Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is one of the most common
medical problems experienced by men over the age of 50. This
non-cancerous condition (hence the word benign) affects millions of
men. As the prostate becomes enlarged, it squeezes the urethra (the
urinary tube which carries urine from the bladder out of the body
through the penis). This enlargement narrows the tube and can
cause difficulty urinating. Many men never develop symptoms
associated with BPH. If symptoms do develop, it is important
for men to recognize them and know that when properly treated most
symptoms can be improved. Symptoms of BPH include: difficulty
urinating, urinating frequently, a sudden urge to urinate, a weak
stream, straining to start and finish, and waking up at night to
urinate (nocturia). This last symptom can be one of the most
annoying for men and their partners. Symptoms of BPH can
become very bothersome and, in addition to the negative impact on
the quality of life, can lead to urinary tract infections or bladder
obstruction
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The prostate is a walnut-sized gland that forms part of the
male reproductive system. The gland is made of two lobes enclosed
by an outer capsule. The prostate is located in front of the
rectum and just below the bladder. It also surrounds the urethra,
(through which urine passes out of the body).
Doctors do not know all the functions of the prostate. One of
its main roles, however, is to squeeze fluid into the urethra as
sperm move through during sexual orgasm. This prostate fluid,
which helps make up semen, energizes the sperm and makes the
vaginal canal more hospitable to them.
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