Rezūm Water Vapor Therapy is a minimally invasive treatment for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), which uses steam to shrink excess prostate tissue, alleviating urinary symptoms like frequent urination and difficulty urinating. While this procedure is highly effective for many patients, like all medical treatments, it comes with the potential for side effects. In this blog, we’ll explore the common side effects of Rezūm therapy, the risk factors involved, and how to manage them.
Common Side Effects of Rezūm Procedure
Although Rezūm is generally well-tolerated, some patients may experience side effects, typically mild and temporary. Here are some of the most common side effects:
1. Urinary Retention
- Urinary retention is one of the most common side effects following the Rezūm procedure. This occurs when the bladder has difficulty emptying completely after treatment. In most cases, it resolves within a few days to weeks. In rare cases, a catheter may be required temporarily to assist with urine drainage.
2. Blood in Urine (Hematuria)
- Some patients may notice blood in their urine for a few days post-procedure. This is usually a result of the steam treatment affecting the prostate and should gradually subside as the tissue heals.
3. Painful Urination or Urgency
- After the procedure, some individuals may experience discomfort or a burning sensation during urination. This side effect typically goes away within a few days.
4. Frequent Urination
- Patients may experience a need to urinate more frequently, especially during the first few days or weeks following treatment. This side effect is often temporary and tends to improve as the body heals.
5. Ejaculation Changes
- Although rare, some men may experience changes in ejaculation, including a decrease in the volume of semen or pain during ejaculation. These symptoms tend to resolve over time.
6. Infection
- Like any medical procedure, Rezūm carries a small risk of infection, particularly in the urinary tract. This can typically be managed with antibiotics, and serious infections are uncommon.
Managing Side Effects of Rezūm
In most cases, the side effects of Rezūm Water Vapor Therapy are mild and short-lived. To manage them effectively:
- Stay hydrated to help flush out any remaining blood in the urine.
- Use pain relievers or anti-inflammatory medication as prescribed to manage discomfort.
- Follow post-treatment care instructions closely, including any prescribed antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection.
- Monitor urinary symptoms closely, and contact your doctor if symptoms like excessive bleeding or severe pain persist.
When to Contact Your Doctor
While most side effects resolve on their own, there are some symptoms that require immediate medical attention:
- Excessive blood in the urine (more than a small amount)
- Severe pain or discomfort that doesn’t improve with medication
- Fever or signs of infection
- Difficulty passing urine or complete urinary retention for more than a few days
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Are the side effects of the Rezūm procedure severe?
- Most side effects are mild and temporary, including painful urination, blood in the urine, and urinary retention. Serious side effects are rare.
2. How long do the side effects last after the Rezūm procedure?
- Side effects typically last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. Most patients start feeling better as the prostate tissue heals.
3. Can I continue my daily activities after the procedure?
- You may need to avoid strenuous activities or heavy lifting for about 1 to 2 weeks following the procedure to allow your body to heal. However, you can generally return to normal activities once symptoms subside.
4. Will Rezūm affect my sexual function?
- Rezūm has a low risk of affecting sexual function, but some patients report changes in ejaculation or mild discomfort. These effects are usually temporary and improve as the body recovers.
5. How can I minimize the side effects of Rezūm?
- Hydration and following your doctor’s post-procedure care instructions can help minimize discomfort and speed up recovery. Avoiding heavy physical activities can also reduce complications.
Conclusion
The Rezūm procedure is a highly effective and minimally invasive treatment for BPH, with a generally low risk of severe side effects. Most side effects are temporary and can be managed with proper care. As always, it’s important to have an open discussion with your doctor to understand all aspects of the treatment, including the potential risks and benefits.
