Another set of symptoms happens when the urine that collects in the bladder causes irritation. These symptoms include:

• Painful urination

• A frequent need to empty the bladder, especially at night

• A feeling of urgency that accompanies the sensation to urinate

• Loss of bladder control (incontinence)

Potentially serious complications can occur if the bladder does not empty completely. Urine that does not exit the bladder can lead to the growth of bacteria, which can cause frequent urinary tract infections. Also, urinary stones can form in the bladder lining due to an accumulation of debris and chemicals. Broken blood vessels can cause blood in the urine, often because of torn or enlarged veins on the inner surface of the prostate. Blood in the urine also can be caused by the sudden stretching of the bladder wall. If left untreated, urine retained in the bladder can back up into the kidneys, which can cause kidney failure over time.