Treatment Options for BPH

Men with moderate to severe BPH symptoms, meaning those significantly bothered by their symptoms, should discuss the benefits, risks, and costs of various treatments with their doctors. Here are some common treatment options:

Watchful Waiting:

For men with mild symptoms or those not too bothered by their symptoms, doctors may suggest waiting and monitoring the condition. Annual check-ups and lifestyle changes, like adjustments in diet and exercise, can be helpful during this period.

Medication:

Various medications can manage BPH symptoms:

Alpha-Blockers:

These medicines, such as Alfuzosin and Tamsulosin, are commonly used and can help by relaxing the muscles in the prostate. They can cause side effects like dizziness and ejaculation problems.

 5-alpha Reductase Inhibitors:

Drugs like Finasteride and Dutasteride can reduce the size of the prostate. However, they may cause sexual side effects, such as lowered sexual desire or erectile problems.

  Combination Therapy:

 Combining an alpha-blocker with a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor may be more effective in some cases.

Phosphodiesterase-5 Inhibitors:

Medicines like Tadalafil can be used to treat BPH symptoms and may also enhance sexual function.

Minimally Invasive Procedures:

There are non-surgical procedures, like transurethral needle ablation and microwave thermotherapy, that can improve symptoms. They may not be as effective as surgery but are less invasive.

Surgery:

Surgical procedures are recommended for more severe cases. Different surgical options are available based on the patient’s needs and the doctor’s recommendations.

Making a Decision:

Doctors will consider the severity of symptoms, the size of the prostate, and the patient’s overall health when suggesting a treatment option. It’s crucial to discuss and understand the potential benefits and risks of each choice to make a decision that’s best suited to the individual’s needs and lifestyle.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.