The signs of prostate enlargement are something many men notice gradually, often dismissing early symptoms as a normal part of ageing.
The signs of prostate enlargement are something many men notice gradually, often dismissing early symptoms as a normal part of ageing. While an enlarged prostate, known medically as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is indeed common in older men, that does not mean the symptoms should be ignored. Recognising the warning signs early and seeking the right advice can make a significant difference to your quality of life and long-term urinary health.
Mr Ammar Alanbuki is a consultant urologist with expertise in urological, oncological, and female urology conditions. He sees patients across London, Horley, and Brighton, offering specialist assessment and a range of treatment options for men experiencing prostate-related symptoms.
The prostate is a small gland, roughly the size of a walnut, that sits beneath the bladder and surrounds the urethra — the tube through which urine passes. As men age, the prostate commonly grows larger. According to NHS guidance on benign prostate enlargement, BPH affects around one in three men over the age of 50.
When the prostate enlarges, it can press on the urethra and interfere with normal urinary flow. This is what causes the range of symptoms associated with the condition. BPH is not the same as prostate cancer, though some symptoms can overlap, which is why a proper clinical assessment is always important.
The signs of prostate enlargement typically affect urination. Symptoms can develop slowly and may vary in severity from person to person. Some men experience mild inconvenience, while others find their daily life significantly disrupted.
These symptoms are often referred to collectively as lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). Not all men with an enlarged prostate will experience every symptom, and the severity does not always reflect the size of the prostate.
It is worth speaking to a specialist if any of the signs of prostate enlargement are affecting your sleep, daily routine, or general wellbeing. Many men delay seeking help out of embarrassment or the assumption that nothing can be done — but effective treatments are available.
Certain symptoms should be assessed without delay. These include:
If you experience any of these symptoms, please seek urgent medical attention or contact your GP promptly, as they may indicate a condition that requires immediate assessment.
A diagnosis is typically made through a combination of a medical history review, a discussion of symptoms, a physical examination, and targeted tests. Mr Ammar Alanbuki may recommend a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test, a urine flow test, or an ultrasound scan to assess the prostate and bladder function. These investigations help to build a clear picture and guide the most appropriate treatment pathway.
Treatment for an enlarged prostate depends on the severity of symptoms and how much they are affecting daily life. Options may range from lifestyle adjustments and medication through to minimally invasive procedures or surgery.
Mr Ammar Alanbuki offers a range of prostate treatments, including AquaBlation therapy and prostate resection (TURP) — procedures that aim to relieve urinary obstruction with precision. The most suitable option will always be discussed in detail during a consultation, taking individual circumstances into account.
The signs of prostate enlargement are not something you need to simply live with. Early assessment can help rule out more serious conditions, clarify the cause of your symptoms, and open the door to treatments that may significantly improve your comfort and quality of life.
To discuss your symptoms and find out what options may be right for you, book a consultation with Mr Ammar Alanbuki. He sees patients in London, Horley, and Brighton, and offers a thorough, patient-centred approach to urological care. Contact Mr Alanbuki’s practice to arrange an appointment.
Consultant Urological Surgeon at University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust. Specialist in robotic and minimally invasive urology, prostate surgery, kidney cancer and stone disease.
Book a private consultation to discuss your symptoms.
