There are so many wonderful things to enjoy as we age. For example, self-confidence, wisdom, respect, happiness, and patience are gained and strengthened through maturity. Many of us have experienced personal and business successes, and possibly a long list of achievements to look back upon. Aging has helped us value family time and enjoy the little things in life.
Understanding BPH
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is also referred to as prostate gland enlargement. The prostate is part of the male reproductive system. It’s a gland about the size of a walnut located between the bladder and the penis. The urethra runs through the center of the prostate, from the bladder to the penis, letting urine flow out of the body. If the prostate becomes enlarged, a patient may have trouble with urination, a weak urine stream, and have the feeling of not being empty after urination. About half of all men over 50 experience some symptoms related to BPH with the numbers climbing dramatically throughout the senior years. While a cause is not definitive, there are links being made to age, family history, and other medical conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. It is important to realize that you are not alone in taking action against these symptoms and that there are treatments that can help you return to a life where you can truly enjoy your age again.
Symptoms of BPH
The severity of symptoms of BPH differs from patient to patient. Depending on the size of the prostate and overall health, symptoms can range from mild to severe. Most patients report having the following symptoms that gradually worsen over time.
Frequent or urgent need to urinate
Nocturia (nighttime urination)
Difficulty starting to urinate
Weak stream or inability to start/stop
Dribbling at the end of urination
Inability to completely void
Some patients on occasion report these symptoms:
Blood in the urine
Urinary tract infections
Inability to urinate
Treatments
There are multiple treatment options for men who experience these sometimes embarrassing symptoms. After meeting with one of our doctors, options will be discussed that take into consideration your overall health, size of your prostate and lifestyle changes that may help. Many patients choose medications and lifestyle changes, to begin with, while others examine some of the new treatments we offer here at MetroWest Urology.
Rezūm Procedure
This minimally invasive procedure is performed as an outpatient or in-office procedure under sedation. Rezūm uses the stored thermal energy in water vapor (steam) to treat the extra prostate tissue that is causing symptoms. Many patients report few side effects and are able to return to their regular activities within a few days. This procedure also provides noticeable symptom improvement within two weeks and preserves sexual and urinary functions.
Urolift System
This BPH treatment is also an in-office procedure that provides rapid relief and recovery of BPH symptoms. This procedure lifts and holds the enlarged prostate tissue so it no longer blocks the urethra. It does not require heating, cutting, or removal of the prostate tissue. Most patients return home the same day without a catheter. Most common side effects are mild to moderate and resolve within two to four weeks after the procedure.
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms related to BPH realize that you are not alone and that there are treatments that can help. Contact MetroWest Urology for a consultation to determine the severity and to discuss treatment options. Call us at 508-655-4422 to schedule an appointment or visit our website at MetroWest Urology.
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