There are three different types of prostate disease: benign prostatic hyperplasia, prostatitis, and prostate cancer. Although these diseases have different causes, they have similar symptoms. Because of this, it’s important to be checked for prostate cancer as part of your yearly physical examination, and to see a urologist (a doctor who specializes in diseases of the urinary tract and the male reproductive system) if you experience symptoms of any of the following diseases.
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Commonly called BPH, benign prostatic hyperplasia is a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that affects approximately half of all men before the age of 50, and 80 percent of men over age 60.
Symptoms of BPH include:
- Difficulty urinating
- An urge to urinate even when the bladder is empty
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- A weak or intermittent stream of urine and a sense of incomplete emptying when urinating
Prostatitis
Prostatitis is an inflammation of the prostate that can be caused by bacterial infection. This condition can affect men of all ages and occur in any sized prostate.
Symptoms of prostatitis include:
- Difficulty urinating
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Pain or burning during urination
- Chills and fever accompanied with urinating problems
Prostate cancer
Prostate cancer, in its early stages, may not cause any symptoms. But as it progresses, symptoms often appear.
Symptoms of prostate cancer include:
- A need to urinate frequently, especially at night
- Difficulty starting urination
- Inability to urinate
- Weak or interrupted flow of urine (dribbling)
- Painful or burning urination
- Painful ejaculation
- Blood in urine or semen
- Frequent pain or stiffness in the back, hips, or upper thighs
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This information is provided by the Cleveland Clinic and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition. This document was last reviewed on: 2/15/2004…#10134
