Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), or enlarged prostate, is a common health condition affecting men, especially those over 50. In Kerala, men facing urinary difficulties often seek effective and minimally invasive treatment options to improve their quality of life. At SDC Prostate Research & Training Centre in Thrissur, patients have access to advanced therapies such as REZUM, UroLift, and laser treatments, all tailored to individual needs. With a team of experienced urologists, state-of-the-art facilities, and a patient-centric approach, SDC ensures that every patient receives personalized care. By combining modern medical procedures with expert evaluation, SDC helps men choose the most suitable treatment for their prostate condition while minimizing risks and promoting quick recovery.
This comprehensive guide will help you understand BPH, explore treatment options, and make an informed choice.
Understanding Enlarged Prostate (BPH)
The prostate is a small gland located below the bladder that produces seminal fluid. With age, the prostate can enlarge, pressing against the urethra and causing urinary problems. Common symptoms include:
Frequent urination, especially at night (nocturia)
Weak or interrupted urine flow
Difficulty starting or stopping urination
Urinary urgency or leakage
Feeling of incomplete bladder emptying
Left untreated, BPH can lead to complications such as bladder stones, urinary retention, infections, and kidney problems. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for preventing long-term issues.
Causes and Risk Factors
While aging is the most common cause, other factors can increase the risk of BPH:
Family history: Men with relatives who had BPH are more prone.
Hormonal changes: Imbalances in testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) can trigger prostate growth.
Lifestyle factors: Obesity, sedentary habits, and high-fat diets may worsen symptoms.
Medical conditions: Diabetes and heart disease may increase the risk.
Understanding these factors can help in preventive strategies alongside medical treatment.
Advanced Treatment Options for Enlarged Prostate in Kerala
Kerala offers a variety of treatment options for BPH. The right choice depends on the size of the prostate, symptom severity, and patient preferences.
1. REZUM Therapy – Steam Treatment for BPH
REZUM therapy is an innovative, minimally invasive procedure available at SDC Prostate Research & Training Centre in Thrissur. It uses water vapor (steam) to shrink excess prostate tissue, relieving obstruction without major surgery.
Benefits:
Outpatient procedure with local anesthesia
Preserves sexual function
Quick recovery – return to normal activities in days
Long-lasting symptom relief
Patients often report improved urinary flow and reduced night-time urination, significantly enhancing quality of life.
2. UroLift System
UroLift is a minimally invasive procedure where small implants lift and hold enlarged prostate tissue, opening the urethra without removing tissue.
Benefits:
Fast symptom relief
Maintains sexual function
Minimal downtime
Ideal for moderate enlargement but may not be suitable for very large prostates.
3. Laser Therapies (PVP, ThuLEP, HOLEP)
Laser treatments remove or vaporize excess prostate tissue using high-precision lasers. These procedures are highly effective for large prostates and reduce bleeding risk compared to conventional surgery.
Benefits:
Precise tissue removal
Minimal bleeding
Short hospital stay
Recovery time varies from 1–2 weeks depending on procedure and patient health.
4. Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP)
TURP is a conventional surgical procedure for removing enlarged prostate tissue. It remains the gold standard for severe BPH cases.
Benefits:
Highly effective for significant obstruction
Time-tested procedure
Considerations:
Longer recovery period
Risk of bleeding and infection
Comparison Table: BPH Treatments at a Glance
| Treatment Option | Procedure Type | Recovery Time | Benefits | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| REZUM Therapy | Steam injection | Few days | Minimally invasive, preserves sexual function, long-lasting relief | May need follow-up for very large prostates |
| UroLift | Minimally invasive implant | 1–2 days | Quick relief, preserves sexual function | Not suitable for very large prostates |
| Laser Therapies (PVP, ThuLEP, HOLEP) | Laser tissue removal | 1–2 weeks | Precision, minimal bleeding | Requires specialized facility and equipment |
| TURP | Surgical tissue removal | 2–4 weeks | Highly effective | Invasive, longer recovery, bleeding risk |
Lifestyle Tips to Manage BPH Symptoms
While medical treatment is key, lifestyle modifications can help reduce symptoms and improve outcomes:
Limit caffeine and alcohol, which can irritate the bladder
Maintain a healthy weight through regular exercise
Stay hydrated but reduce fluid intake before bedtime
Practice timed voiding (urinating on a schedule)
Include high-fiber foods to avoid constipation, which can worsen BPH
Combining medical treatment with lifestyle management often provides the best results.
Why Choose SDC Prostate Research & Training Centre?
SDC in Thrissur is a leading center for advanced BPH treatments, offering:
Experienced Urologists: Expert in REZUM, UroLift, and laser therapies
State-of-the-Art Facility: Modern diagnostic and surgical technology
Personalized Care: Tailored treatment plans for optimal outcomes
Patient-Centric Approach: Focus on quality of life, minimal complications, and post-procedure support
Patients consistently report improved urinary function, faster recovery, and high satisfaction rates.
(FAQs)
No, it is performed under local anesthesia. Patients report only mild discomfort.
REZUM patients typically recover in a few days. Laser treatments may require 1–2 weeks.
Minimally invasive procedures like REZUM and UroLift are designed to preserve sexual function
Some patients may experience recurrence over time. Regular follow-ups are recommended.
The choice depends on prostate size, symptoms, overall health, and lifestyle. A consultation with an expert urologist is essential.
Conclusion
For men in Kerala, enlarged prostate (BPH) can be effectively managed with a combination of modern medical therapies and lifestyle modifications. REZUM therapy at SDC Prostate Research & Training Centre offers a minimally invasive, long-lasting, and highly effective solution for many patients. By choosing the right treatment and making healthy lifestyle changes, men can regain urinary comfort, improve quality of life, and prevent future complications.
Early consultation with an expert urologist ensures the treatment is tailored to individual needs, maximizing safety and effectiveness.
