An enlarged prostate, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is a common condition in older men. The prostate is a small gland located below the bladder and in front of the rectum. It helps produce semen, the fluid that carries sperm.
As men age, the prostate can grow larger. This growth can put pressure on the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body. When this happens, it can cause uncomfortable urinary symptoms such as frequent urination, weak urine flow, or difficulty starting to urinate.
BPH is not cancer. It does not lead to prostate cancer, but the symptoms can affect daily life. The good news is that many treatments are available to shrink the prostate and relieve symptoms.
What Can Be Done to Shrink an Enlarged Prostate?
The first half of this article focuses on direct and effective ways to reduce the size of an enlarged prostate. These methods are widely used and have been shown to work.
Medications
Doctors often prescribe medicine to help shrink the prostate or relax the muscles around it.
Alpha Blockers
These drugs relax the muscles in the bladder neck and prostate, making it easier to urinate. They do not shrink the prostate, but they provide fast relief from symptoms.
Common alpha blockers include:
- Tamsulosin (Flomax)
- Alfuzosin (Uroxatral)
- Doxazosin (Cardura)
5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitors
These drugs actually shrink the prostate by blocking the hormone that causes it to grow. They take longer to work than alpha blockers but are more effective in reducing the size of the gland.
Examples include:
- Finasteride (Proscar)
- Dutasteride (Avodart)
Sometimes, both types of drugs are prescribed together for better results.
Lifestyle Changes
Simple changes in daily habits can reduce symptoms and slow the growth of the prostate.
Limit caffeine and alcohol: These can irritate the bladder and make symptoms worse.
Avoid drinking fluids before bedtime: This reduces nighttime trips to the bathroom.
Exercise regularly: Physical activity can help with bladder control and hormone balance.
Reduce stress: Stress can make urinary symptoms worse. Try relaxation techniques like deep breathing, walking, or meditation.
Dietary Adjustments
Certain foods and nutrients may help maintain a healthy prostate and reduce inflammation.
Eat more fruits and vegetables: These are rich in antioxidants and fiber.
Choose healthy fats: Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish like salmon, may help reduce inflammation.
Reduce red meat and processed foods: These can worsen prostate health.
Drink green tea: It contains compounds that may support prostate health.
Natural Supplements
Some men use herbal remedies to manage prostate symptoms. However, results vary and these supplements should be used with caution.
Common supplements include:
- Saw palmetto: Believed to block a hormone involved in prostate growth.
- Beta-sitosterol: Found in many plants, it may help improve urine flow.
- Pygeum: An extract from African plum tree bark, sometimes used for urinary issues.
Talk to your doctor before using any supplements to avoid side effects or interactions with other medications.
Minimally Invasive Procedures
If medications do not work or cause side effects, doctors may recommend minimally invasive procedures.
Rezūm Therapy
This uses steam to destroy excess prostate tissue. It is quick, does not require surgery, and symptoms improve in a few weeks.
UroLift System
This involves placing tiny implants to hold the prostate away from the urethra, improving urine flow without removing tissue.
Transurethral Microwave Therapy (TUMT)
This uses microwave energy to shrink part of the prostate.
These treatments are usually done in a doctor’s office and have a short recovery time.
Surgery
In severe cases, or when other treatments fail, surgery may be needed to remove part of the prostate.
Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP)
This is the most common surgical procedure for BPH. A scope is inserted through the penis to remove prostate tissue.
Laser Surgery
This uses high-energy lasers to remove or vaporize overgrown tissue.
Open Prostatectomy
In rare cases, when the prostate is very large, open surgery may be required.
Surgery usually provides long-term relief but comes with risks like any surgical procedure.
Monitoring and Regular Checkups
Even if symptoms are mild, regular visits to your doctor are important. BPH can slowly get worse over time. Monitoring helps catch complications early, like bladder damage or kidney problems.
Doctors may recommend:
- Urine tests
- PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) blood tests
- Digital rectal exams (DRE)
- Imaging tests like ultrasound
Early detection and treatment help maintain quality of life and prevent long-term issues.
FAQs
Can an enlarged prostate go back to normal size naturally?
Usually, it does not shrink on its own. But with medication and healthy lifestyle choices, the prostate can be reduced in size, and symptoms can be managed effectively.
At what age do prostate problems usually begin?
Prostate enlargement is common after age 50. Many men over 60 have some degree of BPH, but not all have symptoms.
Is BPH the same as prostate cancer?
No. BPH is not cancer, and it does not turn into cancer. However, it’s possible to have both BPH and prostate cancer at the same time. That’s why regular screening is important.
Conclusion
An enlarged prostate is a common and treatable condition. Many options are available to shrink the prostate and relieve symptoms, including medications, lifestyle changes, natural supplements, and medical procedures. The best treatment depends on the severity of your symptoms, your health, and your preferences. Always talk to your doctor to find the safest and most effective approach for you. With proper care, men with BPH can lead a full and healthy life.
Related topics:
- Can You Reverse An Enlarged Prostate?
- Can You Shrink An Enlarged Prostate Gland?
- Best 10 Supplements to Shrink an Enlarged Prostate
