What every man should know about an enlarged prostate
As men age, certain changes in the body are not only common but expected—and one of the most frequent is an enlarged prostate, medically known as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). While the term may sound concerning, BPH is a non-cancerous condition and is usually manageable with the right care and understanding.
At firstScanHealth, we offer dedicated Men’s Health Scans to detect and monitor conditions like BPH early, giving you the reassurance and clarity you need to stay on top of your health.
What Is BPH?
BPH occurs when the prostate gland (which surrounds the urethra) grows larger and begins to press against the bladder or urinary tract. This is a natural part of ageing and is especially common in men over 50. In fact, according to the NHS, over 1 in 3 men over 50 will experience symptoms of an enlarged prostate.
Source: NHS – Enlarged Prostate (BPH)
Common Symptoms of BPH
BPH affects how you urinate. The most common signs include:
- Difficulty starting or stopping urination
- Weak or interrupted flow
- Frequent need to urinate (especially at night)
- Feeling like your bladder isn’t fully empty
- Urgency or occasional leakage
While these symptoms aren’t life-threatening, they can seriously affect your day-to-day comfort and confidence.
How Is BPH Diagnosed?
Early diagnosis is key to managing BPH effectively. At firstScanHealth, our Prostate and Bladder Ultrasound Scan can help you:
- Assess the size and structure of your prostate
- Detect urinary retention (residual urine in the bladder)
- Monitor changes over time
- Provide essential information to share with your GP or urologist
These scans are non-invasive, quick, and carried out by trained professionals in a private, comfortable setting.
When to Seek Help
It’s important to speak with a healthcare provider if you notice any of the above symptoms, especially if:
- They begin suddenly or worsen over time
- You experience pain or blood in your urine
- You feel anxious or embarrassed about going out or sleeping due to symptoms
Left untreated, BPH can sometimes lead to complications such as bladder stones, urinary tract infections, or even kidney problems.
Managing BPH: Your Options
1. Lifestyle Adjustments
Small changes can make a big difference. These include:
- Limiting caffeine and alcohol
- Reducing evening fluid intake
- Double voiding (urinating twice to empty the bladder more fully)
- Staying active and maintaining a healthy weight
2. Medications
GPs may prescribe medications that relax the prostate muscles or reduce prostate size. These are often very effective and well tolerated.
3. Surgical Options
If symptoms are severe or other treatments haven’t worked, your doctor may recommend procedures to relieve pressure on the urethra.
Why Choose firstScanHealth?
At firstScanHealth, we provide more than just scans – we provide confidence and peace of mind. With our Men’s Health Scans, you’ll benefit from:
- Expert imaging in a professional but relaxed setting
- Same-day feedback and a clear medical report
- Fast, discreet appointments at your convenience
- The ability to monitor prostate size over time
We’re here to help you feel more in control of your health – without long NHS wait times or uncertainty.
An enlarged prostate may be a normal part of ageing, but the discomfort and anxiety that often accompany it don’t have to be. If you’ve noticed urinary symptoms, or simply want to take a proactive approach to your health, an ultrasound can give you answers – quickly and painlessly.