Prostate Pathways research
BPH vs Prostatitis: Why the Difference Matters
BPH and prostatitis can involve urinary symptoms but are different conditions and should not be self-diagnosed.
Medical note: This site provides general educational information, not diagnosis or treatment. New, persistent, severe, or worrying urinary symptoms should be discussed with a qualified health professional.
They are not the same condition
BPH is noncancerous enlargement of the prostate. Prostatitis refers to inflammation of the prostate and can have different causes and treatment needs. Overlapping urinary symptoms make self-diagnosis unreliable.
Why the distinction matters
A supplement marketed for “prostate support” cannot tell you which condition is causing symptoms. Evaluation should come before assuming a cause.