How an Enlarged Prostate Affects Urinary Health and What You Can Do

As men age, it's not uncommon to notice changes in urinary habits—like frequent nighttime trips to the bathroom or difficulty starting and stopping the flow. Often, these issues are related to an enlarged prostate, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

At Urology Associates of Southeastern North Carolina, our team helps men throughout Wilmington and surrounding areas understand their symptoms and find relief with effective, personalized treatment plans.
If you're experiencing urinary symptoms, call us today at (910) 763-6251 or click here to schedule a consultation.

What Is an Enlarged Prostate?

The prostate is a small gland that surrounds the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body. As men get older, the prostate naturally enlarges. This growth can press on the urethra and interfere with the normal flow of urine.

BPH is not prostate cancer, but it can significantly affect quality of life.

Common Symptoms of BPH

You may have BPH if you experience:

• Frequent urination, especially at night 
• Difficulty starting or stopping urination 
• Weak or interrupted urine stream 
• Feeling like the bladder isn't fully empty 
• Urgency or leaking

These symptoms can range from mild to severe and may worsen over time if left untreated.

How We Diagnose an Enlarged Prostate

At Urology Associates of Southeastern North Carolina, we start with a thorough evaluation. This may include a physical exam, discussion of your symptoms, urine flow studies, and imaging tests to assess the size of the prostate and rule out other conditions.

Effective Treatment Options

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to treating BPH. Your plan will be tailored to your specific needs and may include:

• Lifestyle modifications like limiting caffeine or evening fluids 
• Prescription medications to relax prostate muscles or shrink the gland 
• Minimally Invasive PAE – Click here for more information 
• Surgical treatments in more advanced cases

Our goal is to restore comfort and improve your quality of life with the least invasive option possible.

When to See a Urologist

If urinary symptoms are disrupting your daily routine or sleep, it’s time to talk with a specialist. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications such as bladder damage or urinary retention.

At Urology Associates of Southeastern North Carolina, we’ve helped thousands of men regain control over their urinary health with compassionate, expert care.

Schedule your appointment today by calling us (910) 763-6251 or click here to schedule a consultation.

Your prostate health matters—and we’re here to help.