Enlarged Prostate Treatment – sdcprostatecentre.com

As men age, it’s common to encounter certain health issues that might feel uncomfortable or even embarrassing to talk about. One of these conditions is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), or simply, an enlarged prostate. You may have heard the term before, but what does it really mean, and how can it affect your daily life? More importantly, what can be done about it? Let’s dive into the world of BPH, explore its symptoms, and discuss treatment options that can help you live more comfortably.

What is BPH (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia)?

BPH is the medical term for an enlarged prostate, a condition that affects many men as they age. The prostate is a small, walnut-sized gland located just below the bladder and surrounding the urethra (the tube that carries urine out of the body). As men get older, the prostate can start to grow, squeezing the urethra and causing urinary problems.

Though BPH is not cancerous and doesn’t lead to prostate cancer, it can significantly impact your quality of life if left untreated. It’s estimated that over 50% of men in their 60s and up to 90% of men in their 70s and 80s experience some BPH symptoms. The good news is that there are effective treatments available.

Common Symptoms of BPH

The symptoms of an enlarged prostate can range from mild to severe. Some men might experience only minor inconvenience, while others may find their daily life significantly disrupted. Here are some of the most common symptoms of BPH:

Frequent urination: Feeling the need to urinate more often, especially at night (a condition known as nocturia).
Urgency to urinate: A sudden, strong urge to urinate that can be hard to control.
Weak urine stream: Difficulty starting to urinate or a stream that starts and stops.
Incomplete bladder emptying: A feeling that the bladder isn’t fully emptied, even after urinating.
Difficulty starting urination: Hesitation or straining to begin urination.
Dribbling at the end of urination: Urine may continue to drip even after you feel like you’re done.

While these symptoms can be uncomfortable, they don’t necessarily reflect the size of your prostate. Some men with very enlarged prostates may have few symptoms, while others with smaller prostates may experience more significant issues.

When Should You Seek Treatment?

If you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above, it’s a good idea to consult with a urologist. It’s particularly important to seek medical attention if you experience:

Inability to urinate: This is a medical emergency.
Blood in your urine: This could be a sign of an underlying issue.
Recurrent urinary tract infections: Frequent UTIs can be related to incomplete bladder emptying.

While BPH isn’t life-threatening, the complications that can arise from untreated BPH—such as urinary retention, bladder stones, or kidney damage—can be serious.

Enlarged Prostate Treatment Options

Fortunately, you don’t have to live with the uncomfortable symptoms of BPH. There are various treatment options available, depending on the severity of your symptoms, your overall health, and your preferences. Here’s a look at some common treatments for BPH:

1. Watchful Waiting (Lifestyle Changes)

For men with mild symptoms, sometimes the best approach is to simply monitor the condition. This is known as “watchful waiting” or active surveillance. In the meantime, certain lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms, such as:

Reducing fluid intake: Especially before bedtime, to avoid nocturia.
Limiting caffeine and alcohol: Both can irritate the bladder and worsen symptoms.
Exercising regularly: Physical activity can help reduce the severity of symptoms.
Training your bladder: Urinating at scheduled times (even if you don’t feel the urge) can help manage the need for frequent trips to the bathroom.

2. Medications

Several medications can help relieve BPH symptoms by either relaxing the muscles around the prostate or reducing the size of the prostate itself. Common medications include:

Alpha blockers: These relax the muscles in the bladder neck and prostate, making it easier to urinate.
5-alpha reductase inhibitors: These drugs shrink the prostate over time by preventing hormonal changes that cause prostate growth.
Combination therapy: Some men benefit from a combination of both alpha blockers and 5-alpha reductase inhibitors.

Medication is often the first line of treatment for BPH, especially for men with moderate symptoms. However, some may not experience enough relief and will need to explore other options.

3. Minimally Invasive Procedures

For men who do not respond to medication or prefer to avoid long-term drug use, minimally invasive treatments can be a good option. One such procedure is REZUM therapy, which is gaining popularity for its effectiveness and safety.

REZUM Treatment: This procedure uses water vapor (steam) to target and shrink excess prostate tissue, relieving pressure on the urethra. It’s a quick procedure, typically done in-office, with minimal downtime. Most men see significant improvement in symptoms within a few weeks.

At SDC Prostate Research & Training Centre in Thrissur, we specialize in REZUM therapy, offering men a safer, more effective alternative to traditional BPH surgery. Our center, led by Dr. Jithunath M R, is proud to be a leader in advanced BPH treatment in South India.

4. UROLIFT System

Another minimally invasive option is the UROLIFT system, which involves placing small implants to lift and hold the enlarged prostate tissue out of the way of the urethra, allowing urine to flow freely. This procedure is quick and offers immediate symptom relief without the need for cutting, heating, or tissue removal.

5. Surgery

In cases where other treatments haven’t provided sufficient relief, or if complications arise, surgery may be necessary. Several surgical options exist for treating BPH:

TURP (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate): This is the most common surgical procedure for BPH, where the surgeon removes parts of the prostate through the urethra.
HoLEP (Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate): A laser procedure to remove the prostate tissue blocking urine flow.
Prostatic Artery Embolization (PAE): This procedure reduces blood flow to the prostate, shrinking it over time.

While surgery is often very effective, it does come with a longer recovery period and potential risks, making it a last-resort option for many men.

Why Choose SDC Prostate Research & Training Centre in Thrissur?

When it comes to treating BPH, finding a trusted and specialized healthcare provider is crucial. At SDC Prostate Research & Training Centre, located at CIMAR in Thrissur, Kerala, we are dedicated to offering the best possible care for men with BPH. We provide state-of-the-art treatments like REZUM and UROLIFT, ensuring that men have access to the latest, minimally invasive options that offer fast recovery and lasting relief.

Led by Dr. Jithunath M R, our clinic is equipped with advanced technology and a compassionate team, making us the go-to choice for BPH treatment in South India. If you or a loved one is struggling with the symptoms of an enlarged prostate, don’t hesitate to contact us at +91 70344 49099 or email us at specialistdoctorscentre@gmail.com.

In Conclusion

Living with BPH doesn’t have to be a frustrating or limiting experience. Whether you’re dealing with mild symptoms or facing more significant challenges, there are a variety of treatment options available to help you regain control and improve your quality of life. From lifestyle changes to cutting-edge treatments like REZUM and UROLIFT, relief from the discomfort of an enlarged prostate is within reach.

If you’re ready to take the next step in managing your BPH symptoms, reach out to us at SDC Prostate Research & Training Centre in Thrissur. We’re here to help you find the solution that’s right for you.

faq

What is an enlarged prostate, and how is it treated?

An enlarged prostate, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is a common condition where the prostate gland grows and compresses the urethra, causing urinary issues. Treatment options include lifestyle changes, medications, minimally invasive procedures like REZUM therapy, and, in severe cases, surgery.

Are there non-surgical options for treating BPH?

Yes, non-surgical options include medications like alpha-blockers and 5-alpha reductase inhibitors, as well as minimally invasive treatments like REZUM therapy, UROLIFT, and Prostatic Artery Embolization (PAE).

How effective are medications for treating BPH?

Medications such as alpha-blockers and 5-alpha reductase inhibitors can be effective in reducing symptoms of BPH, especially in mild to moderate cases. However, they may have side effects and are not always effective for everyone.

What lifestyle changes can help manage enlarged prostate symptoms?

Lifestyle changes that may help manage BPH symptoms include reducing fluid intake before bedtime, avoiding caffeine and alcohol, regular exercise, and bladder training to urinate at scheduled times.

When should I seek medical treatment for an enlarged prostate?

You should seek medical treatment if you experience frequent urination, trouble starting or stopping urination, blood in your urine, or if you are unable to urinate at all (urinary retention), which requires emergency care.

How does UROLIFT compare to other enlarged prostate treatments?

UROLIFT is a minimally invasive procedure that lifts and holds the enlarged prostate tissue out of the way, allowing better urine flow. It offers immediate relief and does not require cutting or removing tissue, unlike more invasive surgeries.

Is surgery necessary for all cases of an enlarged prostate?

No, surgery is not necessary for all BPH cases. It is typically considered when medications and minimally invasive treatments do not provide enough relief, or if complications arise, such as recurrent infections or bladder stones.

What is the recovery time for minimally invasive treatments like REZUM and UROLIFT?

Minimally invasive treatments like REZUM and UROLIFT generally have a shorter recovery time compared to traditional surgery. Most patients can return to normal activities within a few days to a week, with significant symptom improvement within a few weeks.