Prostate Symptoms: Understanding Enlargement & Potential Issues

The prostate is a male reproductive gland that surrounds the urethra. As a man ages, the prostate enlarges in size, which can put pressure on the urethra and cause a variety of symptoms. A man may develop prostate cancer, and the prostate may need to be removed. A doctor can evaluate a patient's symptoms to determine whether prostate cancer is present or if an enlarged prostate is responsible for the symptoms exhibited.

Frequency of Urination

• A common symptom of a prostate problem is frequency of urination. Frequent or urgent need to urinate, including waking up multiple times during the night, and a sense that the bladder is not empty after urination, are common symptoms.

Difficulty Urinating

• A prostate problem is often exhibited by difficulty when attempting to urinate. This may mean pushing or straining to urinate, or a weak stream. Blood in the urine after difficulty is an indication a doctor should be contacted.

Pelvic Pain

• Pelvic pain and swelling in the groin area is often an indication of a prostate problem in men. Ongoing chronic pain should be a sign that it is time to contact a doctor, who will diagnose the problem and make recommendations for treatment.