Enlarged Prostate Problems

The prostate gland is part of the male reproductive system. The gland is the size of a walnut and surrounds part of the urethra, right above the bladder. The prostate adds fluid to the urethra as sperm travel through the canal during ejaculation. The prostate grows during two different periods in a male's life--first during puberty and second around age of 40. The prostate continues to slowly grow after the second spurt, but the growth does not cause problems until about the age of 60. The enlarged prostate condition is known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Decreased Urine Flow

The prostate may cause a partial blockage of the urethra. The bladder may not be able to control opening and closing to release urine. Urine streams are noticeably weak, and the stream is inconsistent. There may be only a small amount of urine that comes out of the urethra during each visit to the bathroom. The remaining urine may stay in the bladder, giving you the sensation you must urinate again.

Frequent Urination

A frequent reoccurring urge to urinate is common. The feeling is especially strong at night. A man may feel like he has to urinate again immediately visiting the restroom.
The bladder may begin to feel painful or sore from the constant urge to urinate. Blood may be visible in the urine.

Acute Urinary Retention

A male, who may or may not have any other signs of urinary or prostate problems, may be unable to urinate despite having a full bladder. The prostate can completely block the urethra, and then urine is not able to flow out. Men sometimes experience this when they take over-the-counter medications containing sympathomimetic drugs. These ingredients are common in cold and allergy medications. The opening of the bladder may not open all the way and allow urine to flow out. The enlarged prostate contributes to the blocking of the already small bladder opening, resulting in total blockage of urine flow. A medical professional may need to install a catheter into the urethra to relieve the bladder. Seek medical attention if the inability to urinate persists more than 1 hour.