“I’m a urologist who has studied prostate health for over 25 years. Here are the 5 things I tell men with an enlarged prostate to do”

Man with an enlarged prostate talking to his urologist

It is estimated that 70% of men in their 60s suffer from an enlarged prostate. This is something extremely common as men age and is generally not cause for concern. However, if not properly monitored, complications can arise. This is why it is important to know all the facts about what an enlarged prostate means.

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What does it mean to have an enlarged prostate?

“The prostate is located below the bladder and surrounds the urethra, which is a tube-like structure that helps carry urine from the bladder to the tip of the penis. Having an enlarged prostate does not necessarily indicate that you will experience symptoms. However, symptoms can range from mild to severe and often have a negative impact on quality of life,” explains Dr. Vipul Patel, MDurologist and medical director of the oncology program at AdventHealth Cancer Center and the Global Robotics Institute.

For those experiencing symptoms, Dr. Patel says they may include:

• Difficulty starting to urinate

• A feeling of incomplete emptying of the bladder

• Frequent urination, especially at night

• Urinary urgency and hesitation

• Urinary retention (inability to urinate)

Dr. Patel emphasizes that in general, an enlarged prostate is not life-threatening. However, he says complications can occur, such as urinary tract infections, acute urinary retention (when the bladder becomes obstructed, making it impossible to pass urine), bladder stones and kidney damage. To prevent this from happening, he wants all men suffering from an enlarged prostate to know five key tips.

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5 things men with an enlarged prostate need to know, according to a urologist

1. Get evaluated by your doctor

If you have an enlarged prostate, Dr. Patel says communication with your doctor is key. “Maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider and seeking support from family members or support groups can be helpful in managing the physical and emotional aspects of living with an enlarged prostate. Do not be afraid or hesitate if you feel that this disease is a challenge for you and ask for help or advice,” he explains.

Additionally, Dr. Patel recommends carrying out an initial assessment. “This evaluation usually involves a medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests such as a urinalysis. You need to be proactive in scheduling routine checkups and following your doctor’s recommendations for management and ongoing care,” he says. This is essential to prevent complications that can result from an enlarged prostate.

2. Consider prostate cancer screening

While you’re at your doctor’s appointment, Dr. Patel recommends talking with your doctor about whether prostate cancer screening is right for you. “Currently, the American Urological Association recommends offering baseline prostate screening to people ages 45 to 50, and possibly earlier for men at increased risk of developing prostate cancer, based on of the following factors: black ancestry and significant family history of prostate cancer,” he says.

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3. Maintain a healthy lifestyle

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is important for everyone, and men with an enlarged prostate are no exception, as it will support their urinary health. Dr. Patel says this involves eating a balanced diet and consuming enough fiber, staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water, avoiding excessive caffeine and alcohol consumption, exercising regularly and manage stress levels.

4. Know your treatment options

“There are various management options available to manage the symptoms (of an enlarged prostate), ranging from lifestyle modifications to medications, minimally invasive procedures and surgery,” says Dr. Patel.

He emphasizes that it’s always best to discuss your symptoms, preferences, and treatment goals with your healthcare provider to determine the approach best suited to your individual needs.

5. Check with your doctor before taking any medications or supplements

Many people don’t hesitate to take daily multivitamins or other supplements, but if you have an enlarged prostate, Dr. Patel says it’s best to get the green light from your doctor before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medications. or supplements.

“Men who have an enlarged prostate need to be aware of how certain medications, supplements and “natural products” could affect their urinary problems. You can always talk to your doctor about the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use, as some of them could make the condition worse. Your doctor may adjust the dose or time of taking these medications or recommend other medications that have fewer side effects in terms of urinary function,” he explains.

It bears repeating that most men will experience an enlarged prostate as they age. Keeping these five tips in mind will ensure that no complications arise. And remember, if you have any questions or concerns, talk to your doctor: that’s what he’s there for!

Next, check out this list of 10 foods that support bladder health.

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