Did you know that 50% of men over the age of 50 are affected by an enlarged prostate or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)? This health issue causes difficulty urinating and frequent urination that increases the risk of urinary tract infection. If neglected, BPH can even lead to more severe health problems, like bladder stones or kidney damage.
Luckily, a comprehensive guide about several treatment options for BPH will be discussed in this section.
What Is BPH?
While BPH is the enlargement of a prostate gland, it is not cancerous. When the prostate gland that surrounds the tube that takes urine from the bladder out of the body gets too big, it makes it hard to pee, make someone go often, or causes a weak stream. It is also believed that age and hormonal changes can cause an enlarged prostate, which is why it is more common in older men. You can further learn about what is BPH on websites.
Treatment Options for Enlarged Prostate
Lifestyle Change
Changing your daily routine can help alleviate the symptoms of BPH. For example, exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the intensity of symptoms. Less red meat and increased fiber intake can help enhance urinary function. Reducing caffeine and alcohol consumption can help limit the frequency of urination.
Minimally Invasive Procedures
There are now several minimally invasive procedures that can help alleviate symptoms if you are diagnosed with BPH. Here are some of them:
- Transurethral microwave therapy. This uses heat generated by microwaves to destroy excess prostate tissue
- Prostatic urethral lift. It uses small implants to lift and hold the enlarged prostate tissue
- REZUM. This treatment utilizes steam to shrink excess prostate tissue.
All these minimally invasive procedures can be done in a doctor’s office, require little recovery time, and have proven effective in reducing the symptoms and enhancing the quality of life for those affected.
Surgery
Surgery from a private urology clinic in Hamilton may be necessary for more severe cases of BPH. However, several factors must be considered, like the size of the prostate, the patient’s health, and medical history, before surgery may be recommended. Some examples of surgery are transurethral resection of the prostate, laser surgery, and open prostatectomy. Keep in mind that the decision of which procedure to go for should be made by a licensed doctor based on the patient’s needs and medical history.
Alternative Therapies
Aside from medical and surgical treatments, another approach to alleviating the symptoms of BPH is:
- Herbal supplements (e.g., saw palmetto, pygeum, rye grass pollen extract)
- Acupuncture
- Yoga and relaxation techniques
- Bladder training and pelvic floor exercises
- Prostate massage (performed by a trained professional)
While it’s great to have a lot of options, it is best to consult a doctor before trying any alternative therapy.
Conclusion
While BPH can cause many uncomfortable symptoms, many effective treatments are now available, including lifestyle changes, minimally invasive procedures such as REZUM, surgery, and alternative therapies. It is vital to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan if you are experiencing any symptoms of an enlarged prostate. As always, working with professionals can improve your quality of life and manage the symptoms.
