Enlarged prostate: which doctor should I see?
With age the prostate grows larger in many men and presses on the urethra. This leads to a weak stream, frequent urination and getting up at night. Here you will learn what may be behind the complaints, when it is urgent and which specialist to see.
Book a specialistWhen it is urgent
- You cannot pass urine at all — even without pain or a swollen belly.
- A high fever with chills and pain on urination.
- There is a lot of blood in the urine, or there are large clots.
- Confusion, difficulty speaking, blue, grey, unusually pale or blotchy skin, a rash that does not fade when pressed, or severe difficulty breathing.
- New difficulty passing or controlling urine with back pain, numbness around the bottom or genitals, or weakness in the legs.
With these signs, seek emergency help — call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Call 112What it may mean
- Benign enlargement of the prostate — the most common cause, more common with age.
- Inflammation of the prostate (prostatitis) — pain in the groin or between the legs and burning on urination.
- A urinary tract infection — burning and frequent urination.
- Less often, prostate cancer — which is why the urologist may order a blood test and an examination.
Which specialist
How to prepare for the visit
Note how often you pass urine by day and at night, what the stream is like and whether there is burning or blood. Bring earlier urine, blood and prostate test results, and a list of the medicines you take.
Frequently asked questions
Is an enlarged prostate cancer?
No. Benign enlargement is not cancer, but the urologist will judge whether tests are needed to rule out other causes.
Does a urology examination hurt?
It can be unpleasant, but it is usually not painful and it is short.
When should I see a urologist?
When the stream weakens, you get up often at night, or urination is difficult. If urination is painful, you have a fever or chills, or you see blood in the urine, book a visit without delay.
This information does not replace a visit to a doctor.