How bad is your BPH?

*The International Prostate Symptom Score was developed by the American Urological Association to help men determine the severity if their urinary symptoms.  It also helps physicians and patients measure the effectiveness of treatment plans.  The assessment the standard among Urologists across the globe.

What is BPH?

Beginning at about age 40, hormonal changes cause the number of cells in a man’s prostate to increase causing the prostate to grow and constrict the urine tube that runs through its center. An enlarged prostate, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH, is not cancerous, but over time it can cause bothersome urinary symptoms.

Symptoms

The symptoms of an enlarged prostate may be mild or come and go, and as a result, most men wait several months, even years, before seeing a doctor. In general, waiting to see a physician does not pose a problem.

• A weak urine stream
• Trouble starting the flow of urine
• Starting and stopping again when urinating
• Not emptying your bladder completely
• Urinating more often, especially at night
• Sudden urges to urinate
• Leaking or dribbling after you urinate
• Straining to urinate