Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), also known as prostate enlargement, swollen prostate, or prostatic hypertrophy, is a disease which affects men. The disease, which affects the majority of men with functioning testicles, makes the prostate grow abnormally, which can provoke problems in the urinary system due to the location of the gland. Despite the fact that it may be unnoticeable for long periods of time, patients should seek a doctor to avoid further complications.
The prostate is a gland which is normally about the size and shape of a walnut and is part of the male reproductive system. The gland is responsible for the production of a fluid which joins semen during ejaculation. It is located near the bladder and rectum, surrounding the urethra, which is the tube that expels urine and semen from the body. As the prostate enlarges, the gland presses against and pinches the urethra, making the walls of the bladder thicker and causing urinary problems.