Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition in men over 50 years of age that causes enlargement of the prostate gland.

This can lead to a variety of urinary symptoms such as difficulty urinating, urgency, frequency, and incomplete emptying of the bladder. While there are many treatment options available for BPH, many men are seeking non-invasive options to avoid surgery and minimize side effects. In this article, we will explore some of the non-invasive treatments for BPH.

Behavioral Changes

One non-invasive approach to managing BPH symptoms is making lifestyle modifications, such as reducing caffeine and alcohol intake, exercising regularly, and practicing pelvic floor exercises.

These changes can help reduce urinary symptoms and improve overall quality of life.

Medications

Several medications can be used to treat BPH symptoms non-invasively. Some of the most common medications include alpha blockers and 5-alpha reductase inhibitors.

Alpha blockers such as tamsulosin and doxazosin work by relaxing the muscles in the prostate and bladder neck, making it easier to urinate. 5-alpha reductase inhibitors such as finasteride and dutasteride work by shrinking the prostate gland, which can also improve urinary symptoms.

These medications can be effective in reducing symptoms, but may also cause side effects such as dizziness, fatigue, and sexual dysfunction.

Minimally Invasive Procedures

In addition to medications, there are several minimally invasive procedures that can be used to treat BPH symptoms. One option is transurethral microwave therapy (TUMT), which uses microwaves to heat and destroy prostate tissue, reducing obstruction.

Another option is transurethral needle ablation (TUNA), which uses radiofrequency energy to heat prostate tissue and reduce obstruction. These procedures are typically performed on an outpatient basis and have fewer side effects than surgical options.

Laser Therapy

Laser therapy is another minimally invasive option for BPH treatment. One option is holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP), which uses a laser to remove excess prostate tissue and improve urinary symptoms.

Another option is photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP), which uses a laser to vaporize excess prostate tissue. Both of these procedures are highly effective in reducing symptoms and have minimal risk of side effects.

Prostate Artery Embolization

Prostate artery embolization (PAE) is a newer treatment option for BPH that involves blocking the blood vessels that supply the prostate with blood, causing it to shrink.

This procedure is performed by an interventional radiologist and has shown promising results in reducing symptoms and improving quality of life for men with BPH. PAE is currently only available at select medical centers and requires further study to determine long-term effectiveness.

Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is a non-invasive option that involves the use of essential oils to manage BPH symptoms. Some essential oils, such as saw palmetto and pumpkin seed oil, have been shown to reduce urinary symptoms in men with BPH.

While this approach is often used in conjunction with other non-invasive treatments, it should be noted that the effectiveness of aromatherapy for BPH has not been extensively studied.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is another non-invasive option that may be effective in reducing BPH symptoms. Several studies have shown that acupuncture can improve urinary symptoms and overall quality of life in men with BPH.

However, more research is needed to determine the long-term effectiveness of acupuncture for BPH.

Conclusion

While surgical options such as transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) and prostatectomy are effective in treating BPH, many men prefer non-invasive treatments to minimize side effects and avoid surgery.

Behavioral changes, medications, minimally invasive procedures, laser therapy, prostate artery embolization, aromatherapy, and acupuncture are all non-invasive options that can effectively manage BPH symptoms. However, it is important to discuss these options with a healthcare provider to determine the best approach for each individual.