Prostate health information can involve a lot of medical terminology. This glossary explains the most common terms you’ll encounter across our guides, in plain language.
BPH (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia)
A non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that becomes more common with age. It can press on the urethra and cause urinary symptoms such as weak flow, frequent urination, or nighttime waking to urinate.
PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen)
A protein produced by the prostate gland. A PSA blood test measures its level in the blood and is used as a screening tool, though elevated PSA can result from BPH, infection, or cancer — not cancer alone.
DRE (Digital Rectal Exam)
A physical exam where a doctor checks the prostate gland for size, shape, and abnormalities by feeling it through the rectal wall. Often done alongside a PSA test.
Prostatitis
Inflammation of the prostate gland, which can be caused by bacterial infection or occur without a clear infectious cause (chronic pelvic pain syndrome). Symptoms can include pain, urinary difficulty, and discomfort.
Nocturia
The need to wake up one or more times during the night to urinate. It’s a common symptom of BPH but can also be caused by other factors like fluid intake timing, sleep apnea, or other medical conditions.
5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitor
A class of prescription medication (such as finasteride or dutasteride) that blocks the conversion of testosterone to DHT, helping shrink the prostate over time in men with BPH.
Alpha Blocker
A class of prescription medication that relaxes muscles in the prostate and bladder neck, improving urine flow. Often used for faster symptom relief than 5-alpha reductase inhibitors.
DHT (Dihydrotestosterone)
A hormone derived from testosterone that plays a key role in prostate growth. Higher DHT activity is associated with prostate enlargement over time.
Urologist
A doctor who specializes in the urinary tract and male reproductive system, including the prostate. Urologists diagnose and treat conditions like BPH, prostatitis, and prostate cancer.
IPSS (International Prostate Symptom Score)
A standardized questionnaire doctors use to assess the severity of urinary symptoms related to BPH, based on the patient’s own reported experience.
Urinary Retention
The inability to fully or partially empty the bladder. Acute urinary retention (sudden, complete inability to urinate) is a medical emergency requiring immediate care.
Medical Disclaimer: This glossary is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
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