BPH, or Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, is the most common medical condition which affects men over the age of 50. BPH, or having an enlarged prostate, is not life-threatening and will not usually lead to prostate cancer, but its symptoms can be distressing.
The exact cause of the condition is still undetermined. Still, studies have shown that BPH is mainly associated with aging and hormonal changes. Fortunately, BPH is highly manageable, especially with the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider and an individualized treatment plan such as prescribing medication for BPH.
In the past, surgery was the most preferred treatment for BPH. Still, pharmaceutical companies have developed several medicines that can help manage the condition’s symptoms. Doctors would usually prescribe medication for BPHto patients with mild to moderate symptoms.
Alpha-blockers work by relaxing the bladder and prostate muscles, making it easier for you to urinate. These medications usually work right away and can also be prescribed as a treatment for high blood pressure. As usual, just like any other medications, you may experience mild side effects such as the following:
PDE-5 inhibitors are usually prescribed to treat ED or erectile dysfunction. Still, the FDA has approved a famous brand, Cialis, as a medication for BPH. Cialis can help relax the muscles in the bladder and prostate, which can alleviate BPH symptoms. Common side effects of this medication include:
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These medications are designed to stop the production of the hormone responsible for prostate growth. 5-alpha Reductase inhibitors can also help improve urine flow and are ideal for patients with larger prostates.
However, it may take up to 6 months for you to feel the effects of the medication, so make sure to take them religiously and as directed by your doctor. Side effects of this medication include:
In some cases, doctors prescribe combination therapy, including alpha-blockers and 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors. However, it is essential to note that you may experience more side effects since you are taking 2 drugs at one time. It is best to discuss this option thoroughly with your physician if you want to minimize the risk of side effects or interactions.
If you are diagnosed with BPH, you have to make sure to take measures that will not worsen your condition. Here’s a list of medications to avoid when you have BPH:
Antidepressants, antipsychotics, and medications for overactive bladder are examples of anticholinergic drugs. These medications must not be taken if you have BPH since they can increase the difficulty of peeing.
These allergy and cold medications should be cautiously taken to avoid further urinary problems. Antihistamines can slow down or inhibit the flow of urine, while decongestants can tighten the muscles in the bladder, neck, and prostate, leading to difficulty in urinating.
Diuretics are usually prescribed to patients with glaucoma, hypertension, and liver disease. This type of medication can make you pee more often, which can worsen your BPH symptoms.
These popular pain relievers may worsen urinary retention. Still, other studies revealed that the medication can shrink the prostate. There may be conflicting observations on this type of medication, so it is best to consult your doctor before taking any form of pain reliever.
Additionally, certain foods and drinks may worsen BPH symptoms and must be taken in moderation or avoided. Here’s a list of items that could potentially aggravate your condition:
BPH is a highly manageable condition, especially with the help of your doctor and the right treatment plan. The best way to manage the condition is to take your medication for BPH as directed, avoid food and drinks that can intensify the symptoms, and consult your doctor before taking other forms of medicine.
Men with concerns about their erectile function can take this quick test and get some information on whether it might be good to seek help for ED.
Most men have experienced some difficulty in getting or keeping an erection. Having trouble when you’re nervous or have had too much to drink may not be something to be concerned about.
It isn’t erectile dysfunction unless you are experiencing ongoing difficulty.
The Canadian Study of Erectile Dysfunction identified 49.4% of men over 40 with ED (Canadian Urological Association erectile dysfunction guideline 2015). Though all men may experience an occasional lapse of sexual function, ED is the persistent inability to achieve an erection, despite being sexually aroused.
Each of the questions has five possible responses, with score values from one to five.
Your total score is simply the sum of the values of all five answers to the ED test questions.
22-25: No erectile dysfunction
17-21: Mild erectile dysfunction
12-16: Mild to moderate erectile dysfunction
8-11: Moderate erectile dysfunction
5-7: Severe erectile dysfunction
The results of this brief self-evaluation should be used as a guide for whether you might want to consult with a doctor, and not as a replacement for a medical consultation.
Answer the five questions and the results will be automatically emailed to you in minutes.
The information you choose to share will be treated as confidential and will not be disclosed to any third parties.