Rezum treatment is a minimally invasive procedure used to manage symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a common condition that causes urinary problems in men. In places like Kerala, many men are now choosing Rezum as an alternative to long-term medication or traditional prostate surgery because it is less invasive and usually involves quicker recovery. Even though Rezum treatment is widely regarded as safe and effective, it is still a medical procedure, and understanding its possible risks is an important part of making an informed decision.
“What are the risks of Rezum treatment”, Being aware of the risks does not mean that complications are expected, but it helps patients prepare realistically, follow post-treatment instructions carefully, and feel more confident throughout the treatment and recovery process.
Understanding Rezum Treatment and Its Nature
Rezum treatment works by using controlled water vapour (steam) to target excess prostate tissue that is blocking urine flow. The steam causes the unwanted tissue to shrink gradually over time, which helps relieve urinary symptoms. Because Rezum does not involve cutting or removal of the prostate, the overall risk profile is generally lower than that of conventional surgical procedures. However, as with any procedure involving the prostate and urinary tract, certain side effects and risks can occur.
Temporary Urinary Symptoms After Treatment
One of the most common risks of Rezum treatment is a temporary worsening of urinary symptoms shortly after the procedure. Patients may experience increased urinary frequency, urgency, a weak urine stream, or a burning sensation during urination. These symptoms are usually part of the body’s natural response to treatment and often improve within a few weeks as healing progresses.
Urinary Retention
Some men may experience difficulty passing urine immediately after Rezum treatment, a condition known as urinary retention. This can happen because the prostate becomes temporarily swollen following the procedure. In such cases, a urinary catheter may be required for a short period to allow proper bladder emptying. This is usually temporary and resolves as the swelling reduces.
Discomfort or Pain
Mild to moderate discomfort in the pelvic area is possible after Rezum treatment. Some patients describe a sensation of pressure, soreness, or mild pain during urination. This discomfort is typically short-lived and can be managed with prescribed medications or simple pain relief measures. Severe or long-lasting pain is uncommon.
Blood in Urine or Semen
It is not unusual to notice small amounts of blood in the urine or semen for a short time after Rezum treatment. This occurs due to irritation of prostate tissue and the urinary tract. In most cases, the bleeding is mild and resolves on its own within a few days to weeks. Persistent or heavy bleeding is rare and should be evaluated promptly.
Urinary Tract Infection
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a possible risk after Rezum treatment, especially if a catheter is used during recovery. Symptoms may include fever, burning during urination, cloudy urine, or pelvic discomfort. Prompt treatment with appropriate antibiotics usually resolves the infection without long-term effects.
Inflammation of the Prostate or Bladder
Temporary inflammation of the prostate or bladder may occur after Rezum treatment. This inflammation can contribute to urinary discomfort, urgency, or frequency. These symptoms typically improve as the treated tissue heals and the inflammatory response settles.
Delayed Symptom Improvement
Unlike some surgical procedures that offer immediate symptom relief, Rezum treatment works gradually. Some patients may feel that their symptoms persist or even worsen slightly in the early weeks following treatment. This delayed improvement is not a complication but part of the normal healing process, as the body takes time to absorb the treated tissue.
Incomplete Symptom Relief
While many patients experience significant improvement after Rezum treatment, not everyone achieves complete symptom relief. Factors such as prostate size, severity of symptoms, and individual healing response can influence outcomes. In some cases, additional treatments or alternative approaches may be needed in the future.
Need for Retreatment
A small number of patients may require retreatment if symptoms return or do not improve sufficiently. This does not necessarily indicate failure but reflects the progressive nature of BPH in some individuals. Rezum can be repeated if clinically appropriate, or other treatment options may be considered later.
Temporary Sexual Side Effects
Rezum treatment is designed to minimise sexual side effects, but temporary changes can still occur. Some men may notice short-term discomfort during ejaculation or changes in ejaculatory sensation. These effects usually resolve as healing progresses. Permanent sexual side effects are uncommon compared to traditional prostate surgery.
Fatigue and General Recovery Effects
Some patients may feel tired or low in energy for a few days after the procedure. This is a normal response to medical treatment and usually improves with rest, hydration, and gradual return to daily activities.
Catheter-Related Discomfort
If a catheter is required after Rezum treatment, it may cause temporary discomfort, bladder spasms, or irritation. These issues typically resolve once the catheter is removed. Proper catheter care and hygiene help minimise related problems.
Emotional and Psychological Response
Men undergoing treatment for urinary symptoms may experience emotional changes, especially during the early recovery period when symptoms fluctuate. Temporary anxiety or frustration is common, particularly if improvement takes longer than expected. Understanding that recovery is gradual helps manage these emotional responses.
Factors That Influence Risk Levels
The overall risk of Rezum treatment varies depending on several factors, including prostate size, severity of BPH symptoms, general health, existing urinary conditions, and adherence to post-treatment care instructions. Patients who follow medical guidance carefully and attend follow-up appointments tend to experience smoother recovery.
Importance of Post-Treatment Care
Proper aftercare plays a crucial role in reducing risks after Rezum treatment. Drinking adequate fluids, avoiding strenuous activities for a short period, following medication instructions, and monitoring urinary symptoms all contribute to safe recovery. Early reporting of unusual symptoms allows timely management of potential issues.
Long-Term Safety Considerations
Rezum treatment has been shown to provide lasting symptom relief for many patients. Long-term complications are uncommon, and most side effects occur early and resolve over time. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and attending periodic follow-ups help support long-term treatment success.
Understanding Risks Without Fear
Knowing the possible risks of Rezum treatment is not meant to cause concern but to encourage informed decision-making. Most men tolerate the procedure well and experience meaningful improvement in quality of life. Clear understanding, realistic expectations, and active participation in recovery are key elements of a positive outcome.
Making an Informed Choice
For men considering Rezum treatment in Kerala, learning about potential risks and the normal recovery process allows for confident and well-informed decisions. Rezum offers a balance between effectiveness and minimal invasiveness, and understanding its risk profile helps patients approach treatment with clarity, preparation, and peace of mind.
TABLE OF CONTENT
Rezum is a modern, minimally invasive treatment designed to relieve urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate. Learn more
Rezum is suitable for men with moderate to severe urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate who wish to avoid long-term medication or major surgery. Learn more
The cost of Rezum treatment varies based on individual condition and facility. Learn more
During a Rezum consultation, you can expect a detailed evaluation of your urinary symptoms, prostate health, and a clear explanation of whether Rezum is the right treatment for you. Learn more
Asking the right questions before Rezum treatment helps you understand suitability, recovery expectations, and long-term relief from BPH symptoms. Learn more
Proper preparation before the Rezum procedure helps ensure a smoother treatment experience and recovery. Learn more
The Rezum procedure follows a step-by-step process that safely targets enlarged prostate tissue to improve urinary symptoms with minimal disruption to daily life. Learn more
Rezum recovery typically involves temporary urinary symptoms such as frequency or mild discomfort that gradually improve over several weeks. Learn more
Results commonly include improved urine flow, reduced urinary symptoms, and better bladder emptying over time. Learn more
Before-and-after results often show decreased prostate-related urinary obstruction and improved quality of urination. Learn more
Choosing the right doctor involves evaluating experience with Rezum therapy, proper patient selection, clear counseling, and structured follow-up care. Learn more
