Prostate Enlargement (BPH) Treatment
Prostate Enlargement (BPH) Treatment
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), or prostate enlargement, is a common condition that affects men as they age. The prostate gland, which is located just below the bladder and surrounds the urethra, gradually enlarges over time. This enlargement can compress the urethra, leading to urinary problems such as difficulty starting urination, weak urine flow, frequent urination (especially at night), or a sensation of incomplete bladder emptying.
Dr. Marneni Steve Richards, an experienced Consultant Urologist, specializes in diagnosing and treating BPH using both medical and surgical approaches tailored to the patient’s needs and the severity of the condition.
Non-Surgical Treatment for BPH
In the early stages of BPH, many patients find relief with medications aimed at reducing the prostate size or improving urine flow. These include:
Alpha-blockers (e.g., Tamsulosin): These medications relax the muscles of the prostate and bladder neck, easing urine flow.
5-alpha-reductase inhibitors (e.g., Finasteride): These work by shrinking the prostate over time by blocking the hormone that causes prostate enlargement.
Combination therapy may be prescribed for better control of symptoms.
Lifestyle modifications such as reducing caffeine, alcohol intake, and managing fluid intake at night are also recommended to improve symptoms.
Surgical Treatment for BPH
For patients with severe symptoms, or when medication is no longer effective, surgical treatment may be necessary. Dr. Richards is skilled in performing a range of procedures for BPH, including:
Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP): This is the most common surgery for BPH, where a scope is inserted through the urethra to remove the excess prostate tissue that’s blocking the urine flow.
Laser Surgery: Laser technology is used to vaporize or remove the enlarged prostate tissue with minimal bleeding and faster recovery times.
Transurethral Microwave Therapy (TUMT): This minimally invasive procedure uses microwave energy to destroy the excess prostate tissue.
Prostatic Stents or Urethral Dilation: These are options for patients who are not candidates for more invasive surgeries.
