The prostate gland, a male reproductive gland, resides below the bladder under the rectum and surrounds the urethra. The prostate functions within the reproductive system, producing approximately one-third of the fluid in semen and a protein which helps to nourish and protect sperm, according to PSA Rising. Because the urethra carries both semen and urine, an enlarged prostate creates side effects within the urinary system. An enlarged prostate, a condition called benign prostatic hyperplasia, affects about half of all men in their sixties and up to 90 percent of men in their seventies and eighties, according to the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse.
Acute Urinary Retention
The prostate gland is squeezed into a small space with little room to expand. As the gland enlarges, it presses against the bladder and squeezes the urethra. This can obstruct the flow of urine. Men who suffer from an enlarged prostate may experience urinary symptoms such as a weak urine stream, which allows urine to remain in the bladder. When combined with certain factors such as drinking too much alcohol or taking certain medications that interfere with bladder muscle contractions, acute urinary retention can occur. Acute urinary retention describes a serious and life-threatening condition characterized by the sudden inability to urinate, as described by Dr. Lepor in the 2005 issue of "Reviews in Urology." Acute urinary retention causes intense pain and requires immediate medical attention.
Urinary Tract Infections
The restricted flow of urine caused by an enlarged prostate can lead to urinary tract infections. A urinary tract infection occurs when bacteria build up in the bladder and or kidneys. Normally continuous urine flow prevents bacteria from taking up residence in the urinary tract. But when the flow of urine slows, the bacteria remain in the system long enough to multiply. Because the bacteria can hide within the prostate tissue, treating urinary tract infections in men often proves difficult. Doctors treat male urinary tract infections with extended regimens of antibiotics and frequently recurring infections may require the removal of part of the prostate.
Bladder Stones
Men with an enlarged prostate often suffer from bladder stones. When urine remains in the bladder it becomes concentrated, which can cause minerals to crystallize and form small stones, according to MayoClinic.com. Small bladder stones may pass on their own, resulting in no symptoms. Larger stones, however, can cause abdominal pain, painful urination, discomfort within the penis and blood in the urine. Even if the bladder stones cause no symptoms, if left in the bladder they can cause long-term urinary problems. Bladder stones can block the flow of urine, contributing to acute urinary retention. The presence of bladder stones increases the risk and occurrence of urinary tract infections.
