Symptoms of prostate enlargement: When bathroom breaks become urgent signals of prostate trouble in men over 50

Symptoms of prostate enlargement: Sleepless nights and daytime fatigue, experts say, are often the first hints that something more serious may be at play (Image: Canva)

Do you find yourself rushing to the bathroom more often than usual, even waking up several times at night? Or notice a weak stream that dribbles, leaving a sense that your bladder hasn’t fully emptied? For men over 50, these subtle changes could signal an underlying prostate which shouldn’t be ignored.

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, or BPH, is a common condition where the prostate enlarges, putting pressure on the urethra and interfering with normal urine flow. “About half of men over 50 will experience symptoms,” Dr T. Manohar, Chief of Urology Services, Uro-oncology and Kidney Transplantation, Laser, Laparoscopic and Robotic Surgeon, Apollo Institute of Renal Sciences, Apollo Hospitals Bannerghatta, tells Moneycontrol. “Yet, despite the prevalence, many simply think it is about getting older and continue with life, unaware of the toll on their physical and mental wellbeing,” he warns.

Sleepless nights and daytime fatigue, he says, are often the first hints that something more serious may be at play.

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While drinking less caffeine or increasing water intake might temporarily ease symptoms, persistent urges, dribbling, or the feeling that your bladder isn’t empty are signs it’s time to see a doctor. “Even though BPH is not cancer, untreated symptoms can lead to discomfort and infections,” Dr Manohar says. Tests such as urine analysis, PSA blood tests, or an ultrasound can help determine the cause and guide treatment.

Symptoms of prostate enlargement

• Waking multiple times at night to urinate
• Sudden, urgent need to go, even with little fluid intake
• Weak urine stream or dribbling
• Feeling like your bladder hasn’t fully emptied
• Discomfort or mild pain during urination

How to treat prostate enlargement

Says Dr Manohar, “Depending on severity, doctors may recommend medications to relax the prostate or minimally invasive procedures. One innovative option uses water vapour therapy to shrink excess tissue, allowing normal urination to resume within hours, without major surgery or general anaesthesia. These procedures restore daily routine quickly and safely, which is a huge relief for patients.”

Lifestyle changes can help too, suggests the expert. “Simple lifestyle adjustments can also improve bladder function. Reducing alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight, and regular exercise all make a noticeable difference. Early diagnosis ensures men can continue living comfortably without disruption,” he says.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.