Enlarged prostate, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), can cause problems such as a weak urine stream or having to pee a lot all day. There are several treatment options available for BPH, depending on the severity of the symptoms and the size of the prostate gland. Here are some of the most common treatments for BPH:
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Lifestyle changes: Making certain lifestyle changes can help alleviate mild symptoms of BPH. These include limiting caffeine and alcohol intake, avoiding drinking fluids before bedtime, and practicing double voiding (urinating twice in a row).
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Medications: Taking medicine is the most common treatment for mild to moderate symptoms of an enlarged prostate. Options include:
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Alpha blockers: These work by relaxing muscles in your bladder and prostate, which makes it easier to pee. Commonly used alpha blockers are alfuzosin, doxazosin, tamsulosin, silodosin, and terazosin. They often work quickly in people with somewhat smaller prostates.
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5-alpha reductase inhibitors: These stop your body from creating one of the hormones that makes your prostate larger. They prevent growth and in some cases even shrink it. This can improve your urine flow and ease other BPH symptoms as well. They seem to be most helpful to men with very large prostates. Examples include finasteride and dutasteride.
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Combination therapy: Your healthcare provider might suggest that you take an alpha blocker and a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor at the same time if either medicine alone doesnt help enough.
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Tadalafil (Cialis): This medicine is often used to treat erectile dysfunction. Studies suggest it also can treat an enlarged prostate.
- Minimally invasive procedures: These procedures are used when medications dont work or are not suitable for you. Examples include:
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Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP): This involves removing part of the prostate gland using a device called a resectoscope thats passed through the urethra.
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Aquablation therapy: This is a minimally invasive treatment for BPH that uses a precisely-delivered stream of water to reduce the size of the prostate.
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UroLift System: This provides rapid and lasting BPH relief by lifting the prostate tissue out of the way to alleviate urinary symptoms. Tiny implants hold open the blocked urethra that prevents urine from flowing.
- Surgery: Surgery might help with BPH symptoms if you dont get enough relief from medicines or other procedures. The most effective treatment for most cases of BPH is TURP. However, in adults 65 and older, medications and minimally invasive treatments are preferable.
Its important to talk to your healthcare provider about the best treatment option for you based on your individual needs and medical history.
