Benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH, affects the majority of men as they age, and identifying the right enlarged prostate treatments and management strategies may significantly improve daily comfort. The prostate is a gland that aids semen production, and it surrounds the urethra below the bladder. When this gland enlarges, it squeezes the urethra and blocks the natural flow of urine. Lifestyle changes to manage enlarged prostate symptoms are commonly the first treatment for this condition.
Understanding Enlarged Prostate
Symptoms of this condition include a weak urine stream, straining, and the inability to empty the bladder completely. Men over sixty are the primary demographic seeking enlarged prostate treatments, and Hispanic or Black men face higher risks. Hereditary factors play a role, so men with affected relatives might develop symptoms themselves. Because conditions like diabetes show a link to BPH, lifestyle choices typically dictate the severity of the obstruction.
Managing Symptoms
Though it is not a sure causation, researchers believe diet and exercise play roles in controlling the severity of symptoms. Obesity appears to increase the risk of BPH, but habitual exercise may reduce risk. Incorporate fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats into your meals to potentially benefit prostate health. Eating meat has been associated with a higher risk of enlarged prostate, and eating fat has the same association.
Avoid processed foods, sugars, and large amounts of simple carbohydrates to help lose weight. Because alcohol and caffeine can irritate the bladder, reducing your intake helps manage urgency issues effectively. Maintaining a consistent hydration schedule prevents bladder irritation, and it may also facilitate better sleep patterns. A regular exercise habit of 30 minutes per day can help prevent BPH.
Navigating Medical Treatments
Several medical interventions exist when lifestyle adjustments provide insufficient relief. Transurethral resection of the prostate, or TURP, removes tissue surgically. Aquablation uses a waterjet to shrink the prostate, while Rezum therapy utilizes steam vapor to destroy excess tissue. UroLift involves tiny implants to hold the prostatic urethra open, and patients might choose prostate artery embolization, or PAE, to slow blood flow to the artery feeding the prostate.
During PAE, a doctor makes a tiny pinhole in the wrist or groin to direct a catheter into the artery. Harmless microspheres are injected to block the blood supply, and the prostate shrinks over time as a result. Discussing these options with a specialist is one way you can determine the most appropriate path for your specific medical history.
Identifying Urgent Signs
Prompt medical attention facilitates a better prognosis and prevents symptoms from worsening over time. Call a healthcare provider immediately if you experience severe discomfort, and seek help if a total blockage occurs. While mild symptoms are manageable, certain signs indicate a need for urgent care:
- Pain in the lower abdomen or genitals
- Difficulty urinating or total inability to urinate
- Fever or chills during urination
- Blood in the urine
Learn More About Enlarged Prostate Treatments
Managing an enlarged prostate involves a combination of healthy habits and appropriate medical care. Patients can improve their quality of life by understanding their condition, and exploring all available options with a provider can help determine which treatment is right for you. If you want to learn more about enlarged prostate treatment, consult a healthcare provider near you.
