Benign prostatic hyperplasia

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is an age-associated condition in men in which the prostate gland is enlarged and not cancerous. The prostate is a gland responsible for the production of fluid that nourishes and transports sperm. Although the cause of prostate enlargement is not well understood, it is believed to be linked to the hormonal changes a man undergoes as he ages. Luckily, there are several options to minimize the symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Treatment Options For BPH

An enlarged prostate can lead to several uncomfortable symptoms, such as an increased urge to urinate, urinary leakage, a weak urine stream, and not being able to fully empty the bladder. Here at Alliance Urology, we understand how benign prostatic hyperplasia can get in the way. That’s why we have put together a list of four therapies used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia. 

1. Prescription Medications

If you’re struggling with benign prostatic hyperplasia, prescription medications may be right for you. The three most common prescription drugs for men with benign prostatic hyperplasia include

  • Alpha-blockers: Help to relax the muscles of the bladder in the prostate to reduce symptoms associated with BPH.
  • 5-Alpha reductase inhibitors: Increase urine flow and help to shrink the prostate by blocking the male hormone DHT
  • Phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors: Help improve prostate symptoms by increasing flow rate and relaxing the bladder and prostate muscles

In some cases, men with very enlarged prostates will be prescribed more than one medication, known as combined therapy. 

2. Minimally Invasive Procedures

Your doctor will help determine what treatment is right for you when it comes to your diagnosis of benign prostatic hyperplasia. Minimally invasive procedures are often best for men with very enlarged prostates who have taken medication that did not work or may not be good candidates for surgery. Some common minimally invasive surgeries used to help treat benign prostatic hyperplasia include

  • Prostatic Urethral Lift (PUL)
  • Convective Water Vapor Ablation (CWVA)
  • Transurethral Microwave Thermotherapy (TUMT)
  • Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE)

All of these procedures have fewer complications than surgery and can provide relief within weeks. Contact your doctor to find out if one of these procedures is right for you.

3. Surgery

If your symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia are severe and other treatments did not work, your doctor will likely recommend surgery. The most common surgery for BPH is transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). During TURP, an instrument is inserted into the end of the penis and through the urethra to remove parts of the prostate gland. Other surgeries include transurethral incision of the prostate (TUIP) and simple prostatectomy. Because the best treatment for BPH varies from man to man, it is important to talk to your doctor about your specific symptoms, along with the risks and benefits of each procedure. 

4. Active Surveillance And Lifestyle Changes

If medication or invasive procedures are not the routes you want to take when it comes to managing your benign prostatic hyperplasia, there are other methods you can try. Active surveillance is a term used to suggest monitoring the prostate closely. According to the American Cancer Society, this includes a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test at least every six months and a digital rectal exam (DRE) once a year. Additionally, lifestyle changes may also help with BPH. This includes exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet with fruits and vegetables, watching your weight, and avoiding dietary fats.

 
Alliance Urology Specialists is home to an expert team of urologists that are committed to providing comprehensive care to adults with urologic disorders as well as other men’s health issues. If you are experiencing the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia or any other urological conditions, call our office at (336) 274-1114 to make an appointment.