Prostate Health: Enlarged Prostate, Urinary Symptoms & Supplements

Prostate symptoms are common as men age, but urinary problems can have more than one cause. A useful prostate-health strategy starts with understanding the symptoms rather than guessing.

What is an enlarged prostate?

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate. As the prostate grows, it can squeeze the urethra and make it harder for the bladder to empty. NIDDK lists symptoms such as difficulty starting urination, a weak or interrupted stream, dribbling, nighttime urination, urgency and frequency.

Why urinary symptoms deserve evaluation

Symptoms that look like BPH can overlap with other urinary or prostate conditions. Persistent symptoms, pain, blood in the urine, inability to urinate or recurrent infections should not be managed with supplements alone. A healthcare professional can help identify the cause and discuss treatment options.

Where do prostate supplements fit?

Many supplements are marketed for prostate support using botanicals, vitamins, minerals or amino acids. FDA does not approve dietary supplements for safety and effectiveness before they are sold. This means a supplement can be sold even though it has not gone through the same premarket approval process as a prescription drug.

When evaluating a product, look for a complete Supplement Facts label, disclosed doses, realistic claims, clear seller identity, a return policy and a plan for checking potential interactions with medications.

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