How to cope with benign prostate hyperplasia

When a man reaches about the age of 25, his prostate begins to grow. This natural growth is called benign prostatic hyperplasia and is the most common cause of prostate enlargement.

Benign hyperplasia of the prostate is a benign condition that does not lead to the development of a prostate cancer, although the two problems can co-exist.

Although about 50% of men with BPH never develop any symptoms, others believe that benign prostate hyperplasia has a bearing on their daily lives.

Classic symptoms of benign prostate hyperplasia include:

• a hesitant, interrupted, weak urine flow
• leakage after urinating
• a sense of incomplete emptying
• more frequent urination, especially at night.

Consequently, many men need a treatment. The good news is that medical advances are constantly leading to better therapies.

Patients and their doctors now have more drugs to choose from, so if they see no benefit with one, they can easily switch to another. Surgical approaches are also increasingly effective and have fewer side effects.

Before you have problems that require advanced intervention, you can take action yourself.

When symptoms are not yet particularly troublesome, a watchful waiting may be the best way to proceed. This involves regular monitoring to ensure that no complications develop, without any treatment.

For the most worrisome symptoms, most doctors start by recommending a combination of lifestyle changes and medication. Often this will be enough to alleviate the worst symptoms and prevent the need for surgery.

Four simple steps to alleviate some of the symptoms of benign hyperplasia

• Some nervous and tense men urinate more frequently. Reduce stress by exercising regularly and practising relaxation techniques such as meditation.
• When you go to the toilet, take the time to empty your bladder completely. This will reduce the need for subsequent trips to the bathroom.
• Talk to your doctor about all prescription and over-the-counter drugs you are taking; some may contribute to the problem. Your doctor may be able to adjust the dosages or change the schedule for taking these drugs, or he or she may prescribe different drugs that cause fewer urinary problems.
• Avoid drinking liquids in the evening, especially drinks containing caffeine and alcohol. Both can affect bladder muscle tone and stimulate the kidneys to produce urine, leading to nocturnal urination.

Insights: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/benign-prostatic-hyperplasia/symptoms-causes/syc-20370087