Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition in aging men, characterized by the noncancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. Although BPH is not cancer, its symptoms can significantly affect a man’s quality of life — especially when it comes to urination and bladder control.

What is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)?

The prostate is a small, walnut-shaped gland located just below the bladder and in front of the rectum. It surrounds the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body. As the prostate enlarges with age, it can begin to press against the urethra, slowing or blocking urine flow.

Causes of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

The exact cause of BPH isn’t fully understood, but several factors are believed to contribute:

Hormonal changes – particularly a shift in testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels as men age.
Aging – most common in men over 50.
Genetics – a family history of prostate problems may increase risk.
Lifestyle factors – such as obesity, lack of exercise, and chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease.

Learn more from the Mayo Clinic and Penn Medicine.

Symptoms of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

The severity of BPH symptoms can vary greatly among men. Some men may have only mild symptoms, while others experience more significant problems. Common symptoms include:

Frequent or urgent need to urinate
Increased frequency of urination at night (nocturia)
Difficulty starting urination
Weak urine stream or a stream that stops and starts
Dribbling at the end of urination
Inability to completely empty the bladder
Straining while urinating

Warning signs that may require immediate medical attention include blood in urine, pain during urination, or the inability to urinate at all.

collage of benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, symptoms, and causes with text (as described in our symptons)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main cause of BPH?

The main contributor is age-related hormonal changes, especially an increase in DHT. Over time, these changes cause the prostate to grow and gradually press against the urethra.

What can I drink to shrink my prostate? Natural cures?

There is no scientific evidence that specific drinks can shrink the prostate.

While there’s no proven “cure” through diet alone, the following drinks may help reduce inflammation:

Green tea (anti-inflammatory properties)
Water (staying hydrated supports urinary function)
Pomegranate juice (rich in antioxidants)

Similarly, while some natural remedies like saw palmetto, beta-sitosterol, and pygeum are sometimes used, their effectiveness in significantly shrinking the prostate is not well-established and varies among individuals. It’s crucial to discuss any alternative treatments with your doctor.

Note: Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and carbonated drinks, as they can irritate the bladder.

How do I empty my bladder with an enlarged prostate?

Strategies to help empty your bladder with an enlarged prostate include:

Double voiding: Waiting a few minutes after your initial urination and then trying to urinate again.
Relaxing before urinating: Taking your time and trying to relax the muscles around your bladder and urethra.
Avoiding rushing during urination.
Staying hydrated, but potentially limiting fluids before bedtime to reduce nocturia.

It’s important to discuss specific techniques with your doctor.

Does drinking lots of water help?

Yes, but balance is key. Staying hydrated prevents urine from becoming overly concentrated, which can irritate the bladder. However, avoid excessive fluid intake before bed to reduce nighttime trips to the bathroom.

Are there any home remedies?

Some lifestyle modifications that may help manage mild BPH symptoms include:

Limiting fluid intake in the evening.
Avoiding or limiting caffeine and alcohol, as they can irritate the bladder.
Regular exercise.
Warm baths to relax pelvic muscles
Managing stress and improving sleep.
Going to the bathroom when you feel the urge.
Avoiding long periods of sitting.

These are not cures but may offer some symptom relief.

What are the best foods for the prostate?

A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is generally recommended for prostate health. Some studies suggest that foods rich in lycopene (like tomatoes), selenium (like Brazil nuts), and zinc (like pumpkin seeds) may be beneficial, but more research is needed.

Does sitting irritate an enlarged prostate?

Prolonged sitting may put pressure on the pelvic area and potentially exacerbate BPH symptoms in some men. Taking breaks to stand and move around may help alleviate discomfort.

Should I avoid any foods?

Some men find that certain foods and beverages can irritate their bladder and worsen BPH symptoms. These may include caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods, processed meats, high-sodium snacks, and acidic foods. Paying attention to how different foods affect your symptoms can be helpful.

Treatment Options at Monterey Bay Vascular

At Monterey Bay Vascular, we offer advanced minimally invasive treatment options for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, including Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE). PAE is a procedure that blocks the blood supply to the enlarged prostate, causing it to shrink and improve urinary symptoms. Our experienced vascular specialists can evaluate your condition and determine the best treatment approach for your individual needs.

If you are experiencing symptoms of BPH or have been diagnosed with it and are seeking treatment options, we encourage you to contact us to schedule a consultation. Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate and effective care.