Treatments for an Enlarged Prostrate

The prostate gland is located beneath the bladder and is responsible for the milky white fluid that transports sperm during sexual intercourse. An enlarged prostate can cause urinary problems in older males. There are several cures and treatments for the condition.

Medications

Take medications to treat an enlarged prostate. Alpha blockers are an effective medication for enlarged prostate treatment. Alpha blockers relax all the muscles around the bladder, making it easier for the patient to urinate. Enzyme inhibitors can shrink the prostate gland, and are good for men whose prostate has enlarged greatly, pushing against the bladder and causing severe urinary issues. Combinations of these drugs can be used to help control and cure the symptoms of an enlarged prostate.

Non-surgical

Microwave therapy is the most popular non-surgical method of treating an enlarged prostate. In this procedure, microwave energy is used to destroy the inner part of the enlarged prostate. A doctor inserts a catheter through the tip of the penis. This catheter releases microwave energy to destroy any enlarged cells. Transurethral needle ablation (TUNA) uses radio wave transmitted through a cystoscope to destroy enlarged prostate cells. Laser treatment is also available, whereby a laser is used to destroy enlarged cells through the urethra.

Surgical

Surgery can be performed if the patient shows severe symptoms that do not clear up through less invasive cures. Surgery is usually sought if the patient has frequent urinary tract infections, blood in the urine or kidney damage. Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is where excess prostate material is removed through the urethra using small tools. Transurethral incision of the prostate (TUIP) is where two cuts are made in the urethra to expand it. This helps relieve urination issues.
Open prostatectomy can be performed if the prostate is very enlarged. This is the removal of the inner portion of the prostate gland. This type of surgery has the greatest amount of side effects, including the possibility of impotence.