Frequent bathroom trips. Interrupted sleep. A weak or hesitant urine stream. These are just a few of the daily frustrations men with an enlarged prostate face. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is remarkably common in men as they age. But the symptoms can be exhausting.
Many men look for relief outside the doctor’s office, often reaching for over-the-counter supplements for BPH. Promises of natural support and fewer side effects make these products sound appealing. But do they actually work, and are they worth trying?
What Are the Symptoms of BPH?
Not every man with an enlarged prostate will have symptoms, but when they do appear, they can range from mild to extremely bothersome. BPH symptoms include:
- Needing to urinate more often, especially at night, or nocturia
- Difficulty starting urination
- A weak or interrupted urine stream
- Feeling like your bladder doesn’t empty completely
- Dribbling after you finish urinating
- Urgent need to go, even if little urine comes out
Why Do Men Seek Relief?
BPH symptoms can have a big impact on your daily functioning and overall well-being. Frequent trips to the bathroom can:
- Interrupt sleep
- Limit activities
- Make travel difficult
- Make social situations stressful
Over time, untreated BPH can lead to complications such as:
- Bladder infections
- Bladder stones
- Kidney problems
The Role of Over-the-Counter Supplements for BPH
Many men turn to over-the-counter supplements for BPH in search of relief. They often hope to avoid prescription medications or surgery. The most common products marketed for prostate health include:
- Saw palmetto
- Beta-sitosterol
- Pygeum
- Pumpkin seed extract
- Nettle root
Some small studies have suggested mild improvement in urinary symptoms, especially with beta-sitosterol or pygeum. However, large, quality clinical trials have not shown saw palmetto or most other supplements to be more effective than a placebo.
It is important to keep in mind that supplements are not regulated the same way prescription medications are. Because of this, product quality and ingredient accuracy can vary. Supplements are not a substitute for a medical evaluation, especially if symptoms are worsening.
Everyday Changes Can Help Relieve Urinary Symptoms
Many men with an enlarged prostate may need medications or procedures. However, simple changes in daily habits can improve bladder comfort and control. These changes are safe to try at home. However, if urinary symptoms persist, worsen, or include pain, blood in the urine, or sudden inability to urinate, see your doctor. You can try:
- Adjusting fluid intake by spreading liquid intake evenly through the day instead of drinking large amounts at once.
- Limiting drinking in the two hours before bedtime to reduce nighttime bathroom trips.
- Avoiding overhydration, which can strain the bladder.
- Cutting back on caffeine from coffee, tea, and energy drinks can help reduce urgency and frequency.
- Limiting alcohol, which may irritate the bladder and increase urine production.
Maintaining a healthy weight. - Exercising regularly, doing both aerobic activity and pelvic floor exercises.
Practice Better Bathroom Habits
Improving your bathroom habits can help keep your bladder healthy, too. Try using the double void technique when urinating. After you finish, pause for a few moments and then attempt to void again to make sure your bladder is fully emptied. Also, avoid holding your urine for long periods, as this can put unnecessary strain on your bladder and may worsen symptoms over time.
Rule Out Contributing Conditions
If you have diabetes, work to control your blood sugar, as poorly managed blood sugar can increase urination. And, be sure to discuss any medications with your doctor because some can make it harder to urinate.
Why Seeing a Urologist Matters
Don’t just assume it is BPH. Similar symptoms can be caused by more serious conditions, including prostate cancer. Getting checked by a urologist ensures you know exactly what’s going on. A urologist can:
- Confirm that your symptoms are due to BPH and not another cause
- Check for complications, like infection
- Offer proven prescription treatments or minimally invasive procedures to solve symptoms
- Monitor your prostate health over time
If you’ve been struggling with urinary symptoms, whether mild or severe, don’t ignore them. Make an appointment with a urologist. They can help determine the cause and guide you toward relief.
Don’t use over-the-counter supplements for BPH instead of treatment that works—call (541) 334-3350 to schedule an appointment today!