Many men facing enlarged prostate symptoms worry that surgery is their only option. Fortunately, effective bph treatment without surgery can provide significant relief for most men, allowing them to avoid the risks and recovery time associated with surgical procedures.

Prescription Medications That Work

With regards to non-surgical treatment of BPH, the usual method of management is using prescriptions for medications. The most common medications are alpha blockers (tamsulosin, doxazosin and terazosin), which help relax the muscles around the bladder neck and prostate, and provide some improvement in urinary flow during the early time following initiation of treatment.

There is a second approach, 5-alpha blockers (finasteride and dutasteride), which has a longer modality of action, and in time (perhaps over 3 – 6 months) can reduce prostate size.  While alpha blockers work quickly, 5-alpha reductase inhibitors could potentially prevent BPH from worsening in certain patients.

In patients with large prostates or severe symptoms, the combination of both forms of medication is ideal in order to increase symptom relief and optimize outcomes, and, treatment decisions should depend upon the individual clinical characteristics and severity of BPH.

Natural Solutions and Lifestyle Changes

When treating BPH, some people decide to use natural supplements in addition to their traditional treatment. Saw palmetto is most often mentioned in the context of natural supplements; however, the effectiveness of Saw palmetto varies person-to-person. There are also other natural supplements available in the supplement aisle such as beta-sitosterol, pumpkin seed extract, and pygeum. Many users report benefits from taking these natural supplements in this discussion, but it is important to know that benefit is not guaranteed.

Lifestyle changes can also be incorporated into management and symptom management. Limiting fluid intake in the evening can lessen overnight trips to the restroom- whether it be bladder or prostate related is not typically the issue. Drinking less caffeine and alcohol can usually help as both can irritate the bladder. Incorporating exercise and controlling one’s weight is often encouraged and will also help improve general prostate health.

Two specific tips that can help you manage symptoms: performing double voiding (urinating, stopping, then attempting to emptier the bladder again) might help empty bladder more completely. Scheduling bathroom breaks during the day can help to issue surrounding urgency and frequency as well. While these two approaches are not a cure, they can be helpful strategies in a comprehensive management strategy.

Minimally Invasive Options

For men who don’t respond well to medications or natural treatments, several minimally invasive procedures offer middle-ground solutions. These include water vapor therapy, prostatic urethral lift, and microwave therapy. These procedures are less invasive than traditional surgery while providing more significant relief than medications alone.

Working with Your Doctor

When it comes to managing BPH without surgery, it is all about working together with a well-informed urologist. This is not a “set it and forget it” situation. You need check-ins to monitor whether your treatment is working, and to make changes where needed. 

For many men, it is entirely possible to manage BPH effectively and sustain an excellent quality of life without surgery. The key is a combination of medication, lifestyle changes, and at times natural therapies. With the correct advice, some effort, and a good attitude, you can effectively manage BPH and keep things moving.

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