BPH, or benign prostatic hyperplasia, is the medical name for having an enlarged prostate. It is a condition which affects the prostate glands but is not caused by cancer or even an infection. BPH is a severe condition, but fortunately, it is highly treatable with the help of treatment or medication for BPH.
BPH seems to be related to getting old, and the exact cause of the condition is still not fully understood. The excellent news is BPH can be managed and potentially prevented. In this article, discuss BPH and its impact on your overall health. We will also share the different types of prescription medications that are best for BPH and alternative remedies to consider.
Q&A on BPH
How common is BPH?
BPH is known as the most prevalent prostate problem, and almost all men will experience an enlargement of their prostate as they age. Studies have shown that by age 60, at least 50% of men will experience symptoms of BPH, and by age 85, at least 90% of men will have the condition.What are the usual symptoms of BPH?
Common BPH symptoms include difficulty starting or ending urination, incomplete emptying of the bladder, urgent or frequent need to urinate, urinary retention and weak urine stream.Are you at risk of prostate cancer if you have BPH?
BPH and prostate cancer may exhibit the same symptoms. Still, several studies have shown that not all BPH cases would lead to prostate cancer. But to be on the safe side, a yearly prostate screening is recommended for men ages 55 to 69.How is BPH diagnosed?
Proper diagnosis is crucial since the treatment or medication for BPH will depend on the outcome of the diagnosis. During diagnosis, your doctor will review your medical history, assess your symptoms and conduct a physical exam. A DRE (digital rectal exam) and possibly a few other tests, such as cystoscopy or ultrasound, may also be undertaken.What happens if BPH is left untreated?
BPH can lead to other medical issues such as bladder stones, Hematuria (blood in the urine), incontinence, urinary retention or UTI (urinary tract infection). As soon as you experience any of the symptoms, please see your doctor immediately and, make sure to follow their recommendations and take your medication as prescribed.
Common Medications for BPH
BPH medications are designed to help relieve the symptoms by:
- Relaxes the muscles in the bladder and prostate
- Shrinks the size of the prostate
- Stops the growth of the prostate
Here are the top medications for BPH treatment:
- Alpha-blockers: Alpha-blockers are usually prescribed as the first-line medication for BPH for patients with mild symptoms. Examples of alpha-blockers are Flomax (generic name Tamsulosin) and Uroxatral (generic name Alfuzosin). These medications relax the bladder, neck, and prostate muscles, improving urine flow. Side effects of alpha-blockers may include the following:
- Abnormal ejaculation
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Nasal congestion
- PDE-5 Inhibitors: PDE-5 inhibitors are usually prescribed as a treatment for erectile dysfunction or ED. However, these medications can also work well with BPH patients since they can help relieve the symptoms of BPH. Popular PDE-5 inhibitors are Cialis (Tadalafil) and Viagra (Sildenafil). The usual side effects of PDE-5 inhibitors are the following:
- Back pain
- Flushing
- Headache
- Indigestion
- Low blood pressure
- Nasal congestion
- 5- Alpha Reductase Inhibitors: 5-ARIs block dihydrotestosterone, a male sex hormone which causes the prostate to grow. Examples of this medication are Avodart (generic name Dutasteride) and Proscar (generic name Finasteride). Here are the common side effects of 5-ARIs:
- Breast enlargement or tenderness
- Decreased sex drive
- Erectile dysfunction
- Combination Medications: Sometimes, your doctor may prescribe a combination of medications for a more practical approach. It is essential to consider the side effects of the medicines when they are taken together. An example of combination therapy is taking an alpha-blocker together with a 5-ARI. Please note that PDE-5 inhibitors should not be taken together with alpha-blockers.
Alternative Medicines for BPH
Herbal supplements can be your primary or complementary medication for BPH. Still, you must first consult your doctor about this matter. Keep in mind that supplements are not usually regulated compared to prescription medicines.
However, some patients have reported better results with their choice of supplements, which are the following:
- Beta-sitosterol: Taking beta-sitosterol may help improve urinary symptoms, although further studies are needed for definitive conclusions. Beta-sitosterol is generally safe for anyone, but side effects may include the following:
- Allergic reactions
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Indigestion
- Nausea
- Pygeum: Pygeum comes from the bark of the African plum tree, and users have reported its benefits. However, just like any other medication or supplement, side effects may occur, such as the following:
- Abdominal pain
- Allergic reactions
- Nausea
- Pumpkin Seed Extract: A few studies revealed that taking pumpkin seed extract supplements can alleviate BPH symptoms and improve urinary flow. Common side effects of taking pumpkin seed extract include the following:
- Allergic reactions
- Gastrointestinal Upset
- Rye Grass Pollen Extract: Rye grass pollen extract is popular in European countries and is used to lessen urinary problems associated with BPH. The side effects are usually mild and include the following:
- Allergic reactions
- Gastrointestinal discomfort
- Nausea
- Saw Palmetto: Saw palmetto is considered the most popular supplement for BPH, and users have reported reduced urinary symptoms. Saw palmetto must not be taken together with blood-thinning drugs to avoid severe interactions. It is generally safe to use, and its side effects may include any of the following:
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Mild stomach discomfort
As previously mentioned, it is best to check with your doctor first before taking any supplements that can potentially help relieve BPH symptoms. In many cases, alpha-blockers are prescribed because the medication works fast.
If you prefer natural supplements as medication for BPH, discuss this option first with your doctor to avoid interactions or side effects. Additionally, please remember that the effectiveness and results of prescription medications or supplements vary.
Communication with your healthcare provider and regular monitoring are essential in managing your condition. Trust your doctor’s recommendation and take your medicines as prescribed. Do not self-medicate or try any treatment without the approval of your doctor.
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