The prostate is a walnut-sized gland located in the pelvis, and it plays a crucial role in the male reproductive system. Unfortunately, as men age, the prostate gland tends to get enlarged, leading to several urinary tract symptoms like difficulty in urination, frequent urination, and urinary incontinence. This condition is called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and affects almost two-thirds of men over the age of 60. In Jerusalem, several healthcare providers offer various treatments for this condition, and in this blog, we will guide you through some of the popular BPH treatment options.
Medications
The initial line of treatment for BPH usually includes medications. Alpha-blockers like Tamsulosin, Terazosin, and Doxazosin help relax the muscles of the prostate and bladder neck, making it easier to urinate. 5-alpha reductase inhibitors like Finasteride and Duasteride prevent the conversion of testosterone to DHT, a hormone that is responsible for prostate gland enlargement. Medications can be highly effective in improving symptoms, and some patients may need to take them for a long time.
Minimally invasive procedures
In some cases, medications do not provide adequate relief, or patients may not be able to tolerate the side effects. In such situations, minimally invasive procedures like transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), transurethral needle ablation (TUNA), and laser therapy may be recommended. TURP is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the inner part of the prostate gland through the urethra. TUNA uses radiofrequency energy to burn away the excess prostate tissue, while laser therapy uses a laser to vaporize the excess tissue. These procedures are usually performed under spinal or general anesthesia and require hospitalization for a short duration.
Prostatic artery embolization (PAE)
PAE is a relatively new and promising treatment option for BPH. It involves inserting a small catheter into an artery in the groin and guiding it to the arteries that supply blood to the prostate gland. Then, tiny particles are injected into these arteries, blocking blood flow to the prostate, and causing it to shrink. PAE is performed under local anesthesia, does not require hospitalization, and has a quick recovery time. However, it is not suitable for all patients, and the long-term efficacy of this treatment is still being studied.
Robotic-assisted prostatectomy
Robotic-assisted prostatectomy is a surgical procedure in which a surgeon uses a robotic system to remove the entire prostate gland. This procedure is usually recommended for patients with very large prostate glands or those who have prostate cancer. In Jerusalem, several hospitals are equipped with state-of-the-art robotic surgery systems like the da Vinci system, which provide enhanced precision and visualization during surgery. Robotic-assisted prostatectomy requires hospitalization for a few days and has a longer recovery time than other BPH treatments.
Lifestyle modifications
Lifestyle modifications like maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, reducing caffeine and alcohol consumption, and avoiding fluids before bedtime can also help improve urinary symptoms in BPH patients. These changes may not cure the condition, but they can certainly make the symptoms less bothersome.
Benign prostatic hyperplasia is a common condition that affects many men worldwide. Fortunately, there are several options for treatment for enlarged prostate in Jerusalem that can alleviate the symptoms and improve the quality of life of patients. The choice of treatment depends on various factors like the severity of symptoms, the size of the prostate gland, the patient’s overall health, and personal preferences. Consulting with a qualified urologist and discussing the various treatment options can help patients make an informed decision.
