Do you find our website to be helpful?
Yes   No
Skip to main content

Is an Enlarged Prostate Dangerous?

Is an Enlarged Prostate Dangerous?

Did you know that by age 55, about a quarter of all men develop an enlarged prostate, a condition called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)? As men age, the numbers rise, with 50% having BPH by age 60 and 90% by age 85.  

The good news is that an enlarged prostate doesn't mean you have prostate cancer, and it doesn’t increase your risk of getting this disease in the future. But that doesn’t mean BPH is free of all dangers. 

At Urology Associates Medical Group, our providers are committed to giving men in Burbank, California, the safest and most effective treatments available when it comes to BPH. We also believe in educating our patients about the condition and how it affects their health. 

Take a moment to learn what you need to know about an enlarged prostate and whether it’s dangerous to your health.  

What is an enlarged prostate? 

An enlarged prostate occurs when your prostate gland, a walnut-sized gland located near the urethra and responsible for producing seminal fluid, grows in size. This creates pressure on the urethra and can cause problematic symptoms.     

Medical researchers still haven’t discovered the exact cause of BPH, but they do know that the prostate gland grows as you age. As such, the older you get, the more likely it is you’ll develop an enlarged prostate. 

Other risk factors can cause you to experience symptoms earlier, such as a family history of BPH or a personal history of obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. 

Research also indicates that BPH may be linked to elevated testosterone levels and cellular changes in the testicles, which can be caused by age, diet, and other factors. 

While BPH isn’t cancerous, it can trigger uncomfortable symptoms that may negatively affect your quality of life, including:

An enlarged prostate can also create changes in the color of your urine or the way it smells.    

Is an enlarged prostate dangerous?

For many patients, when left untreated, BPH can eventually lead to the urethra becoming blocked. When this happens, symptoms become more severe, and over time it’s possible to develop serious conditions, such as:

These conditions can trigger additional symptoms, including:

If you notice any of these symptoms of advanced BPH, schedule an appointment to see a specialist at Urological Associates Medical Group immediately. 

Are there treatments for an enlarged prostate?

We review your age, medical history and overall health, the size of your prostate, and the severity of your symptoms before creating a customized treatment plan designed to offer you the best help possible.

Treatment may begin with medication for mild or moderate symptoms of an enlarged prostate. If your BPH symptoms are more severe and affecting your quality of life, we may recommend a surgical intervention called the UroLift® System. 

The UroLift System is a revolutionary treatment that addresses the primary issue associated with an enlarged prostate: the restriction BPH places on your urethra. The UroLift System solves this problem by holding back excess prostate tissue to keep the urethra open. 

We perform this minimally invasive procedure using specially designed implants. We insert a small device through your urethra and then place implants in your prostate and lift the excess tissue away from the urethra. 

The UroLift System doesn’t require any cutting or removal of prostate tissue, and it only requires a local anesthetic. This means you’re treated as an outpatient in about an hour or less.  

The UroLift System offers several benefits compared to other BPH treatments, including less severe side effects than other surgical interventions for BPH and a faster recovery time than the surgical alternatives.

To learn more about BPH or to get help for the symptoms associated with your enlarged prostate, contact us at Urological Associates Medical Group in Burbank, California, and set up a consultation today.

You Might Also Enjoy...

I'm Nervous About My Cystoscopy: What Can I Expect?

I'm Nervous About My Cystoscopy: What Can I Expect?

Feeling nervous about your upcoming cystoscopy? We’ve put together this guide to explain exactly what a cystoscopy is, why you need it, and what to expect during and after the procedure. Take a moment to learn about this diagnostic procedure.

What Does a Men's Physical Exam Involve?

If you’re getting ready for an appointment with your urologist, you might wonder what this physical exam involves. Keep reading to learn what you can expect and why these appointments are so important.
My Urinary Incontinence Is Embarrassing: Can You Help?

My Urinary Incontinence Is Embarrassing: Can You Help?

Many Americans struggle with urinary incontinence, but it doesn’t have to remain a source of embarrassment. Different treatments exist to manage urinary incontinence, and your options depend on what type you have. Keep reading to learn more.
What Is Considered an Overactive Bladder?

What Is Considered an Overactive Bladder?

Are urgent trips to the bathroom leaving you wondering what’s going on? You could have an overactive bladder, which causes a strong, urgent need to use the toilet. How can you tell if you have this common condition? Keep reading to find out. 
How Soon Can I Have Sex After a Vasectomy?

How Soon Can I Have Sex After a Vasectomy?

As you prepare for a vasectomy, you may wonder about your recovery period and how it may affect the intimate parts of your life. Keep reading to find out what you need to know about having sex after a vasectomy.
Can Prostate Cancer Mimic UTI Symptoms?

Can Prostate Cancer Mimic UTI Symptoms?

Did you know that certain symptoms of prostate cancer can resemble those of a UTI in men? Navigating these overlapping signs can be tricky. Keep reading as we decode the similarities and discuss what to do if you’re experiencing symptoms.