By Dr T Manohar
People often associate prostate-related problems with cancer, but benign prostate conditions — such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) — are common, and often misunderstood. BPH is quite common and nearly half of men between the ages of 51 and 60 experience BPH. It is a natural progression as men age. Up to 50% of men over 50 years and 80% over 80 years are affected by BPH.
While BPH is more common in older men, it can also affect men in their 40s and 50s. Age is a significant risk factor, but it’s not the only one. Unhealthy lifestyle habits can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels in the body causing hormonal imbalance. This hormonal imbalance can cause the prostate cells to grow infinitely. The enlarged prostate can compress the urethra restricting the urine flow. This leads to some common signs and symptoms such as urinary tract infection, stones in the bladder, blood in the pee, kidney damage, etc.
What is a prostate?
In the male reproductive system, the prostate is a small, walnut-sized gland located between the penis and bladder. It produces the fluid that keeps sperm healthy and safe.
There is a common myth that sexual dysfunction is inevitable with enlarged prostate hyperplasia. However, the fact is that with appropriate management, most men can preserve their sexual health while addressing their prostate issues.
How is an enlarged prostate diagnosed?
The first step is to understand and observe the patient’s symptoms. Once the indications are towards BPH, a rectal exam is performed to determine the size and shape of the prostate.
How to manage BPH?
Effective BPH management and the avoidance of consequences such as kidney damage, bladder stones, and urinary tract infections depend on early detection. There are many options for the treatment of BPH. One can change his lifestyle such as consuming less caffeine and alcohol.
- Medications: Medicines are a first-line approach for some patients, particularly in mild to moderate cases in which invasive surgical options are not appropriate. Medicines can help in relaxing the muscles and allowing better flow of urine. Another type of medicine can be used to stop the prostate from growing. Erectile dysfunction drugs can help with urine flow too. For some men, medicines can be effective, however, barriers to long-term management with medication include adherence challenges and treatment-related adverse effects.
- Invasive surgeries: These surgeries could be a good option for some men, but this may have higher risks and complications such as bleeding, infections, sexual problems and not able to control the urine. Historically, TURP has been considered a standard for surgical treatment of BPH based on its demonstrated efficacy; however, it is associated with long-term complications.
- Minimally Invasive Surgical Therapy (MIST): Depending upon the condition of the patient, procedures are recommended to remove prostate tissue or widen the urethra. Some use the pulse of a laser beam, microwaves, ultrasound, electric current or heated water. BPH can be managed effectively managed by water vapor therapy, a non-invasive and adaptable solution for addressing prostate concerns without any invasive surgical procedures or permanent implants. By using steam to target troublesome prostate tissue into the damaged area, the body’s natural healing process begins and prostate size decreases because of the treated tissue being progressively absorbed over time. Patients who receive this therapy should be aware that, in contrast to the quick relief that is frequently anticipated following surgery, symptoms may increase temporarily before becoming better. This first setback is thought to be related to the inflammatory reaction that steam causes, which results in tissue swelling in the first few weeks of the healing process. The inflammation reduces as the body heals, improving symptoms all around. Three months or so after the water vapor therapy, the healing process continues. The 5-year clinical trial, published in the Journal of Urology in September 2021, shows that those who benefit from this therapy express long-lasting satisfaction, even after five years. This innovative approach not only targets the root cause of the problem but also provides long-term satisfaction for individuals seeking lasting relief from prostate-related symptoms.
Can BPH be prevented?
There is no sure way to prevent BPH. Still, losing weight and eating a well-balanced diet, rich in fruits and vegetables, may help. Too much body fat may increase hormone levels and other factors in the blood and stimulate the growth of prostate cells. Staying active also helps control weight and hormone levels.
(Disclaimer: The author is Chairman, SCUG: Silicon City Urology Group, Urologist- Endourologist, Laser & Laparoscopic Surgeon, Robotic Surgeon & Renal Transplant Surgeon, Director, Apollo Institute of Renal Sciences. The information provided in the article is for educational purposes only, and not meant to provide any medical or clinical advice. Please consult your doctor for more information. Views expressed are personal and do not reflect the official position or policy of the FinancialExpress.com.)
