When you are first diagnosed with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia or an enlarged prostate, you will first be offered advice on conservative treatments that may help you manage your condition. If there is no further improvement then alpha-blockers may be offered. Surgery will only be offered as a last resort if the symptoms persist and are severe.
Conservative Treatments
Watchful Waiting
Your GP may decide to initially monitor your condition before starting any treatments, this is called watchful waiting. This is because, an enlarged prostate, in some men can improve over time without the need for any drug intervention. You can also help to manage this condition by limiting your intake of caffeine, alcohol and fizzy drinks as they irritate the bladder and by avoiding taking any over-the-counter products with a decongestant as these can make prostate problems worse
MEDICINAL
Alpha-Blockers
Alpha-Blockers can be prescribed to treat an enlarged prostate in two different ways. Some of the medications will stop the prostate from growing any further and eventually helping to shrink it down. Some alpha-blockers help by relaxing the muscle surrounding the prostate making it easier to urinate.
Tamsulosin is a common medication used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia and works by relaxing the surrounding muscle around the prostate. This medication is not suitable for everyone and can produce some side effects. Your GP will be able to prescribe this drug if it is safe to do so.
SURGICAL
Transurethral Resection of the Prostate/ Transurethral Incision of the Prostate
Transurethral resection of the prostate or TURP as it is commonly known, involves cutting a section of the prostate gland away to decrease it’s size. If you are not suitable for TURP, you may be offered a transurethral incision of the prostate (TUIP), which involves making two small incisions in the prostate to allow the urethra to widen making urination easier. This procedure is considered safer if your general health is not in good condition.
Further information and downloads can be found in the help and information section. Living with a bladder condition can affect you emotionally and socially; sometimes it can help to speak to others who understand your situation. The Bladder & Bowel Community Forum is available 24 hours today and will allow you to connect with those who share your condition. Start your own topic today or just follow one that interests you.
