Although many men believe these symptoms are just a part of getting older, the truth is, these symptoms are not normal at any age and over time these symptoms may be harmful to the bladder and kidneys. Incompletely emptying the bladder and overworking the bladder muscle can lead to urinary tract infections, bladder or kidney damage, bladder stones, and incontinence. It is important to seek treatment early because damage to the bladder can often be permanent. When BPH is recognized and treated in its early stages, however, there is a lower risk of developing such complications.