An oversized or enlarged prostate is a common issue in men, especially as they age. Prostate health should become a priority by the time you reach the age of 40.
In the medical community, an oversized prostate is referred to as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It is when the prostate gland increases in size. Some men with this condition do not experience symptoms, however, most do.
This article provides top tips for managing oversized prostate symptoms. As you read this, we hope you become empowered to deal with this condition with the help of a urologist.
What is an Oversized Prostate?
The prostate is a gland that produces fluid that is part of the semen. It is part of the male reproductive system. Fluids from the prostate nourish the sperm cells with enzymes.
Prostate enlargement becomes a reality for many men as they age. According to the Mayo Clinic, one of the reasons could be due to the imbalance of sex hormones during this period.
There is also a genetic component to this. Your risk increases if you have a blood relative with prostate issues.
Oversized Prostate Symptoms
Symptomatic BPH can affect one’s quality of life. You should be aware of these enlarged prostate symptoms and bring them to the attention of your doctor:
- Frequent urination, especially at night.
- Waking up multiple times at night to use the bathroom, disrupting sleep.
- Difficulty starting or stopping urination, often with a weak stream or feeling like the bladder isn’t fully empty.
- Pain after ejaculating.
- Urine that has an unusual color or smell.
Spotting these signs early can help with better management and treatment. When not treated, BPH can lead to urinary tract infections (UTIs) and damage to the kidneys and bladder.
BPH Treatment
Treating an oversized prostate depends on several factors, including the size of the prostate, your age, overall health, and how severe your symptoms are. Options for BPH treatment include lifestyle changes, medication, and surgery.
Lifestyle Changes for Mild BPH Symptoms
These changes help improve your quality of life without the need for medication or surgery.
Here’s what you can do:
- Limit Liquid Intake: Reduce the amount of liquids you drink, especially before going out or before bedtime, to minimize the need for frequent urination.
- Cut Back on Caffeine and Alcohol: Both caffeine and alcohol can irritate the bladder and worsen symptoms, so it’s wise to avoid or reduce your intake of these beverages.
- Do Pelvic Floor Exercises: Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles through specific exercises can improve urinary control and reduce symptoms.
- Practice Bladder Training: By training your bladder to hold more urine for longer periods, you can reduce urination frequency and improve bladder control.
- Manage Constipation: Preventing or treating constipation is important because a full bowel can put pressure on the bladder and worsen prostate symptoms.
- Monitor Medications: Certain medications, such as decongestants, antihistamines, antidepressants, and diuretics, can aggravate prostate symptoms. Talk to your healthcare provider about alternatives or adjustments if you’re taking these.
Medical Treatments for Oversized Prostate
Your doctor may also recommend medications for mild to moderate symptoms of BPH:
- Alpha-blockers: These medications relax the muscles in the prostate and bladder, which makes urination easier.
- 5-alpha reductase inhibitors: Work by shrinking the prostate by preventing hormone changes that cause prostate growth.
- Combination therapy: Sometimes, both alpha blockers and 5-alpha reductase inhibitors are prescribed together for better results.
- Tadalafil (Cialis): Typically used for erectile dysfunction, it may also improve prostate symptoms.
Surgery for BPH Treatment
Surgery is usually recommended when medications do not provide enough relief from BPH symptoms. Other possible reasons include not wanting to take medication or if you keep developing complications from BPH.
Minimally invasive treatments for an enlarged prostate exist. See some of the procedures below:
- Laser prostatectomy: The procedure uses a laser to remove excess prostate tissue, which is causing a blockage in the urethra.
- Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP): The procedure is surgery to remove part of the prostate that’s causing a blockage.
- UroLift® urethral lift: An innovative treatment for BPH that lifts the enlarged prostate to prevent blocking of the urethra. The result is reduced pressure on the urethra and improved urine flow.
Some patients may not be a good candidate for surgery. Schedule an appointment with a urologist to find out your treatment options.
Becoming proactive about your prostate health means scheduling health screenings to monitor prostate health and catch any changes early. Regular consultations with a urologist ensure you receive personalized care and guidance for managing your condition.
Oversized or Enlarged Prostate Treatment in Phoenix, AZ
Dr. Desiderio Avila Jr. at Ironwood Urology is a board-certified and fellowship-trained urologist. Dr. Avila is highly experienced in treating BPH. He combines his great bedside manner and expertise in men’s health conditions, making him a trusted name in urology.
At our urology clinic in Phoenix, we offer the latest and greatest BPH treatments. To find out which treatment Dr. Avila will recommend for you, schedule a consultation today. Call (480) 961-2323 or use our convenient appointment request form.
Sources:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/benign-prostatic-hyperplasia/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20370093
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/23965-prostate
