An enlarged prostate, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is a common condition in men over the age of 50. It occurs when the prostate gland, which is located just below the bladder, becomes enlarged and obstructs the flow of urine. Symptoms of an enlarged prostate can include difficulty urinating, frequent urination, and a weak stream of urine. If left untreated, an enlarged prostate can lead to serious complications, such as kidney damage and bladder stones.
There are a number of ways to check for an enlarged prostate. One common method is the digital rectal exam (DRE). During a DRE, the doctor inserts a finger into the rectum to feel the prostate gland. Another method is the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test. The PSA test measures the level of PSA in the blood. PSA is a protein that is produced by the prostate gland. Elevated levels of PSA can indicate an enlarged prostate or other prostate problems.