Managing BPH can be a daunting and frustrating situation for men. Benign prostatic hyperplasia, also known as an enlarged prostate, affects many men as they age, usually starting in their forties.
As the name indicates, BPH is not cancer, but since it is a common problem among men as they get older, it would be helpful to learn about 6 BPH management tips and when to contact Louisiana Healthcare Associates Urology Division for treatment.
Recognizing the Symptoms of BPH
When the prostate gland grows larger, it can squeeze the urethra and make it harder to urinate. An enlarged prostate exhibits some classic symptoms. Once they begin, the symptoms can become slightly better over time by making lifestyle adjustments, or they may become progressively worse without treatment.
Men will begin to notice some or all of the following symptoms of BPH:
- A weak or interrupted stream
- A sudden urge to urinate
- Feeling like you still need to urinate after you have
- Difficulty starting
- Excessive urination
- Leaking urine
Once a man begins to be bothered by BPH, they should consult with Louisiana Healthcare Associates Urology Division. At this point, your physician may recommend a “watch and wait” approach and regularly scheduled examinations to track your progress. Additional recommendations may include making some simple changes to your lifestyle.
6 BPH Management Tips
- You can limit trips to the bathroom during the night by reducing the amount of liquid you consume in the evening. This includes caffeine, soda, alcohol, and even water.
- Avoid some over-the-counter medications which can affect urination and BPH. These include some types of antihistamines, decongestants, and benadryl-related products.
- Make a point to empty your bladder fully each time you urinate.
- Stress can make you susceptible to an overactive bladder. Engage in exercise to reduce stress if you don’t already do so.
- Being overweight or obese can be a risk factor and contribute to an enlarged prostate, so stop waiting to start eating healthier.
- Use any supplements or medications recommended by Louisiana Healthcare Associates Urology Division to manage your BPH symptoms.
What’s Next?
If you have tried all the management tips, taking supplements and prescription medications, and your symptoms are still bothersome or are getting worse, it is probably time to see Louisiana Healthcare Associates Urology Division again with an update on your symptoms. Once it has been determined that no lifestyle changes can improve your condition, it will be time to consider your next step.
Untreated BPH can lead to kidney disease, frequent urinary tract infections, and stones in the bladder.
There are prescription medications and other treatments and procedures available for an enlarged prostate.
Schedule an Erectile Dysfunction Consultation Today!
If you are experiencing BPH symptoms or if these symptoms have become more severe, contact Louisiana Healthcare Associates Urology for a full evaluation and discussion of your treatment options. To visit our office in Covington call (985) 892-6811 or request an appointment using our secure form.