The prostate is a walnut-sized gland found only in men. It is located just below the bladder and is responsible for producing the liquid component of semen. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, or NIDDK, the prostate may also have other functions but these are not yet known. It is common for the prostate gland to grow as a man ages, says NIDDK. However, a number of conditions may also cause the prostate gland to become enlarged. (See Reference 1)
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Benign prostatic hyperplasia, also known as benign prostatic hypertrophy or benign prostatic obstruction, is characterized by an overgrowth of cells of the prostate gland, which in turn causes the prostate to enlarge. This often blocks the flow of urine. As such, the symptoms of BPH may include difficulty in starting tor pain on passing urine, or a weak interrupted flow. According to U.K. health care provider Bupa, it is not yet fully known why some men develop BPH and not others. It is more likely to occur as a man ages. BPH may be treated with drug therapy and minimally invasive techniques such as laser therapy. In some cases, surgery is necessary. (See Reference 2)
Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is another condition that may be cause an enlarged prostate gland. According to Mayoclinic.com, prostate cancer is a common form of cancer in men. Although prostate cancer normally grows slowly and remains confined to the prostate gland, some forms of prostate cancer are more aggressive and can spread from the prostate to affect other parts of the body. The symptoms of prostate cancer and BPH are very similar so it is important for men with prostate concerns to see their doctor in order to gain an accurate diagnosis. (See Reference 3)
Prostatitis
The prostate gland may also become enlarged due to inflammation. In this case, a condition known as prostatitis is usually diagnosed. According to NIDDK, prostatitis is painful condition that mainly affects young and middle-aged men. There are four types of prostatitis: acute bacterial prostatitis, chronic bacterial prostatitis, chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome and asymptomatic inflammatory prostatitis. According to NIDDK, doctors often find prostatitis difficult to diagnose as the symptoms often vary among patients. However, symptoms may include pain when urinating and incomplete emptying of the bladder. (See Reference 4)
