Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate that squeezes the urethra and blocks the outflow of urine from the bladder. Left unmanaged, the obstruction can lead to urinary infections, bladder stones and blood in the urine.
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate that squeezes the urethra and blocks the outflow of urine from the bladder. Left unmanaged, the obstruction can lead to urinary infections, bladder stones and blood in the urine.
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate that squeezes the urethra and blocks the outflow of urine from the bladder. Left unmanaged, the obstruction can lead to urinary infections, bladder stones and blood in the urine.
It is one of the most common conditions in older men and tends to progress gradually. The good news is that it is very manageable once assessed properly — which is why an accurate evaluation, rather than guesswork, comes first.
Roughly half of men in their 60s, and over 90% of men in their 80s, develop an enlarged prostate — it is a normal part of ageing for most men.
Frequent urination, night-time urination, hesitancy, a weaker stream, perineal discomfort and lower-abdominal tension.
Congestion and swelling of the prostate area, worsening voiding symptoms and incomplete bladder emptying.
Rising residual urine, stretching of the bladder and kidneys, urine reflux, and risk of uraemia and hydronephrosis if untreated.
If several of these apply to you, a urological evaluation is worthwhile. This checklist is a guide, not a diagnosis.
A brief examination estimates the size and texture of the prostate.
Ultrasound measures prostate volume and residual urine; cystoscopy inspects the outlet when needed.
A prostate-specific antigen level helps gauge cancer risk and interpret prostate size.
Flow testing and a post-void residual measurement quantify how obstructed the bladder outlet is.
Urine testing checks for infection and blood that would change the plan.
For mild symptoms: periodic monitoring of urination, lifestyle guidance, and regular check-ups with annual PSA and urine/blood tests.
Alpha-blockers relax the bladder neck and 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors shrink the gland — the mainstay for mild to moderate symptoms and for men who cannot or prefer not to have surgery.
If medication is insufficient or complications develop, surgical options are discussed and, where appropriate, arranged with an experienced surgeon.
Structured review keeps the prostate and bladder monitored over time, with adjustments as needed.
BPH is assessed here by a Seoul National University-trained, board-certified urologist using the full work-up — DRE, ultrasound, PSA, flow and residual testing — so the recommendation reflects your actual prostate rather than symptoms alone. For a foreign patient, that thoroughness plus English-speaking support means a clear, honest plan in a single visit.
No — BPH is non-cancerous. However, similar symptoms can occasionally reflect cancer, so PSA and examination are part of the assessment to be sure.
Very. About half of men in their 60s and over 90% in their 80s have some prostate enlargement, so it is a normal part of ageing for most men.
No. Many men are managed with monitoring or medication; surgery is considered when symptoms are not controlled or complications develop.
Usually yes — DRE, ultrasound, PSA, flow and residual testing are same-visit, so you leave understanding your prostate and the options.