Can prostate size be reduced?
Tiny plastic particles are injected into these vessels to reduce the prostate gland’s blood supply, which shrinks it. The potential benefits of prostate artery embolization compared with surgery are fewer complications and you can have this procedure under local anesthesia as an outpatient.
Introduction
“What is enlarged prostate size?” you might ask. In the simplest of terms, an enlarged prostate, also known medically as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), occurs when the prostate gland increases in volume. The exact size can vary, and the term does not denote a specific measurement but refers to any increase beyond the normal parameters defined by medical professionals. That being said, this is not an uncommon phenomenon for men as they age. This introductory note aims to unravel more about the nuts and bolts of an enlarged prostate. We’ll delve deeper into symptoms to watch out for, treatments available, and several lifestyle adjustments that could help mitigate its effects.
The Prostate and What Happens when it Enlarges
Picture a little chestnut nestling at the base of a man’s bladder. That’s the prostate for you, small and unassuming; it plays a vital role in producing seminal fluids crucial for fertility. Now visualize this chestnut bloating, slow and steady, over time. When it enlarges, it begins to squeeze onto the urine conducting pipe, commonly known as the urethra, that it envelopes – think of it as a pipe being choked by an expanding sponge. Despite the humor in the metaphor, it’s no laughing matter for the gentlemen dealing with the consequences of an enlarged prostate.
Good to Know – Enlargement vs. Cancer
Despite an unsettling ring to its name, an enlarged prostate is not synonymous with prostate cancer. Though both conditions share some symptom patterns, it’s vital to tear apart this common myth. If there’s a lurking fear of the big ‘C,’ consult a doctor to put your mind at ease.
Catch it Early: Symptoms and Tell-tale Signs
BPH intrudes slowly, almost stealthily. It starts with increasing urgency to visit the loo, especially during the nocturnal hours. If you find yourself waking up more often than not with a gnawing need to dash to the bathroom, it might be a reason to pay attention. As it progresses, the stream of urine might start thinning out and you may feel like your bladder is still partially filled post voiding.
Beyond the Obvious – Uncommon Symptoms
You might presume that symptoms are confined to urinary issues, but you’d be surprised. In more severe cases, urinary tract infections, or even blood in the urine, could raise their ugly heads. Remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Helping Hand – Medical Treatments and Lifestyle Changes
In cases of BPH, physicians are not all scalpel and gloom. Often, the first line of defense is medication that either shrinks the prostate or relaxes the bladder, easing out the urine flow. If drugs seem inadequate, minimally invasive procedures might be suggested. The dietary side of things warrants a shift towards a healthier lifestyle. Reducing caffeine and alcohol, particularly before bedtime, and sticking with a diet rich in fruits and vegetables is recommended.
When Nature Calls… Answer!
It sounds dead simple, but this is an aspect often overlooked: Do not ignore the urge to urinate. Holding back too often can exacerbate symptoms of an enlarged prostate.
Conclusion
In conclusion, an enlarged prostate size is a condition often synonymous with aging in men, and while it may paint an unpleasant picture, it’s not the end of the world. A cocktail of timely medical treatment and lifestyle tweaks can work wonders. Remember, knowledge is your lifeline, and being aware of your body and its changes is the first step towards robust health.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the risk factors for an enlarged prostate?
Aging is the foremost risk factor for an enlarged prostate. Family history, lifestyle choices, and ethnicity can also play a role.
2. Does an enlarged prostate affect sexual performance?
While BPH itself may not directly affect sexual performance, some medications used to treat it can cause sexual side effects.
3. Is there a way to prevent an enlarged prostate?
While you cannot prevent the prostate from enlarging, leading a healthy lifestyle and maintaining regular checkups can help manage potential symptoms.
4. Is prostatitis the same as an enlarged prostate?
No, prostatitis is inflammation of the prostate, typically caused by an infection. While some symptoms may overlap with BPH, they are different conditions.
5. Does an enlarged prostate mean I have prostate cancer?
Not necessarily. An enlarged prostate is often a benign condition. However, if you have concerns, always seek a medical professional’s opinion.