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Benign prostatic hyperplasia treatments

Depending on the severity of symptoms and the influence on an individual’s quality of life, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) can be controlled using a variety of therapeutic options. Among the treatment options are:

Watchful Waiting or Active Surveillance:

For mild symptoms that do not significantly affect quality of life, a healthcare provider may recommend monitoring without immediate intervention. Regular check-ups will be scheduled to monitor the progression of symptoms.

Lifestyle Modifications:

Making certain lifestyle changes can help alleviate symptoms. This may include avoiding caffeine and alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active, and practicing pelvic floor exercises.

Medications:

Alpha-blockers: These medications relax the muscles in the prostate and bladder neck, improving urine flow.
5-alpha reductase inhibitors: These drugs can reduce the size of the prostate by blocking the action of hormones that contribute to its growth.
Combination Therapy: In some cases, a combination of alpha-blockers and 5-alpha reductase inhibitors may be prescribed.

Minimally Invasive Procedures:

Transurethral Microwave Thermotherapy (TUMT): This procedure uses microwave heat to shrink the prostate.
Transurethral Needle Ablation (TUNA): Radiofrequency energy is used to create targeted thermal injury to the prostate tissue.
Laser Therapy: Various types of laser procedures can be used to remove or vaporize excess prostate tissue.

Surgical Options:

Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP): This common surgical procedure involves removing excess prostate tissue to relieve symptoms.
Open Prostatectomy: In more severe cases, open surgery to remove part of the prostate may be recommended.

UroLift System:

This is a minimally invasive procedure that uses small implants to lift and hold the enlarged prostate tissue out of the way, improving urine flow.

The choice of treatment depends on factors such as the size of the prostate, the severity of symptoms, the patient’s overall health, and personal preferences. It’s important for individuals with BPH to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most suitable treatment plan for their specific situation.

What are the 5 warning signs of BPH?

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) can manifest with a variety of urinary symptoms. Here are five common warning signs that may indicate the presence of BPH:

Frequent Urination:

Men with BPH often experience an increased frequency of urination. This may include the need to urinate more frequently during the day and, in particular, during the night (nocturia).

Urgency:

There may be a sudden and compelling urge to urinate, sometimes making it challenging to reach the bathroom in time.

Difficulty Initiating Urination:

BPH can lead to difficulty starting the urinary stream. This may manifest as hesitancy or a feeling that it takes longer than usual to begin urination.

Weak Urine Stream:

The force of the urine stream may be weaker than normal, and it might feel like the stream is not as strong as it used to be.

Incomplete Emptying:

Men with BPH may experience the sensation that the bladder is not fully empty after urination. This can lead to a persistent feeling of needing to go back to the toilet shortly after finishing.

It’s important to note that these symptoms can overlap with other urinary conditions, and the severity of symptoms can vary among individuals. If you or someone you know is experiencing these warning signs, it’s advisable to seek medical attention for a proper evaluation. A healthcare provider can conduct a thorough assessment, which may include a physical examination, a review of symptoms, and possibly additional tests to determine the cause of the urinary symptoms and recommend appropriate management. Early diagnosis and intervention can help improve the quality of life for individuals with BPH.

What is BPH caused by?

BPH is mostly caused by changes in the structure and function of the prostate gland that occur with aging. The prostate is a tiny gland placed beneath the bladder and ahead of the rectum. It encircles the urethra, the tube that transports pee from the bladder to the penis.

Several factors contribute to the development of BPH:

Aging: The risk of developing BPH increases with age. It is a common condition in older men, and by the age of 60, a significant percentage of men may have some degree of prostate enlargement.
Hormonal Changes: Changes in hormonal balance, particularly an increase in the levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a form of testosterone, play a role in the development of BPH. DHT is thought to contribute to the growth of prostate cells.
Family History and Genetics: There is evidence to suggest a genetic component to BPH. If a man has a family history of prostate enlargement, he may be at a higher risk.
Ethnicity: Studies have shown variations in the prevalence of BPH among different ethnic groups. For example, men of African descent may have a higher risk of developing BPH compared to men of Asian descent.
Lifestyle Factors: Certain lifestyle factors may influence the development or progression of BPH. These include obesity, lack of physical activity, and diet high in fat and red meat.

While the exact cause of BPH is not fully understood, it is likely a combination of these factors. BPH is a non-cancerous condition, but it can cause bothersome urinary symptoms due to the enlargement of the prostate and the resulting compression of the urethra. If a man is experiencing symptoms suggestive of BPH, such as difficulty urinating, frequent urination, or a weak urine stream, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and management.