BPH, or benign prostatic hypertrophy, is a common condition that affects many men as they age. Also known as an enlarged prostate, BPH causes the prostate gland to grow larger than it should be and often leads to bothersome urinary symptoms such as frequent and urgent urination, trouble urinating, waking at night to urinate, or even urinary incontinence.
Many different treatment options are available to help control the symptoms of BPH, depending on your circumstances and the severity of your symptoms. Keep reading to learn more about the best options for BPH relief.
Best Options for BPH Relief
Active Surveillance: Active surveillance can be an excellent option for men with mild symptoms of BPH that do not interfere too much with their daily activities. With active surveillance, you will have regular check-ups with your doctor to monitor your symptoms and blood work until you decide you may be ready for further treatments or interventions.
Lifestyle Modifications: Lifestyle modifications are commonly used to manage the symptoms of BPH. Many men relieve symptoms of BPH by making simple dietary changes, such as avoiding caffeine, alcohol, or spicy foods, especially in the evening, to reduce urinary symptoms at night. Your doctor may also recommend reducing the amount of fluids you drink in the evenings to allow for fewer nighttime wakings to urinate.
Medications: Medications are often used for men who deal with moderate symptoms of BPH. A few different types of medication are available to help treat your symptoms.
- Alpha-Blockers: Alpha-blockers relax the prostate and the muscles surrounding the bladder. The relaxation effect improves the flow of urine and reduces the symptoms of BPH. Alpha-blocker medications include tamsulosin, alfuzosin, and doxazosin.
- 5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitors: 5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitors, like finasteride and dutasteride, shrink the prostate gland by blocking the hormone that contributes to its growth.
- Combination Therapy: Some men treat their BPH symptoms by using a combination of these medications.
UroLift Implants: When lifestyle modification and medications do not provide enough relief for your BPH symptoms, your doctor may recommend a minimally invasive procedure like UroLift Implants to reduce your symptoms.
The UroLift System is an FDA-approved, minimally invasive treatment for BPH. The procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia. UroLift quickly relieves the symptoms of BPH by permanently opening up the urethra using small implants to hold the prostate tissue out of the way. Once the implants are placed, you can expect immediate relief from your BPH symptoms.
There are many benefits of the UroLift System. Not only is it FDA-approved, but it is also minimally invasive, meaning the implants are placed through the urethra, so there are no incisions or extended recovery time. Most men resume their normal activities the same day as the procedure. The few side effects you may experience include mild to moderate discomfort, burning during urination, blood in the urine, or urinary urgency. If you experience any side effects, they typically resolve within 2 to 4 weeks after the procedure when the urethra and prostate have healed. Most men find their urinary symptoms have improved or subsided within a few weeks.
Overall, UroLift is a safe and effective treatment for your BPH symptoms. It can provide immediate relief, improving your quality of life.
See A Doctor About The Best Options for BPH Relief
The best options for BPH relief depend on several factors, including the size of the prostate, the severity of the symptoms, and your personal preferences. Visiting with an experienced urologist is the first step in discovering all your options.
Don’t continue to live with frustrating urinary symptoms – call: 541.334.3350 to schedule an appointment today!