TL;DR:
- Prostate hypertrophy (enlarged prostate) commonly affects men over 45, linked to aging, hormonal changes, and lifestyle factors.
- Symptoms include weak urine flow, frequent/urgent urination, incomplete bladder emptying, nighttime urination, urinary leakage, and pain during urination.
- Risk factors: low physical activity, smoking, alcohol, poor diet (low fruits/vegetables).
- Prevention: Regular check-ups (start at 30, annual exams after 50), PSA tests, healthy diet (high in zinc, lycopene, flavonoids), and reduced salt.
- Treatments: Medications (reduce symptoms, improve flow), surgery (severe cases), herbal supplements (e.g., sabal palm, maca root, pumpkin seeds).
- Prostate issues can affect sex life (erections, libido) and may signal prostate cancer.
- Early detection and lifestyle changes are critical.
Prostate hypertrophy (prostate gland) is a phenomenon that most men face in their old age. According to statistics, up to one in two men in their fifties have problems urinating. Doctors, however, have not fully discovered the cause of this ailment, but it is known that it may be related to hormonal changes that occur in the body during aging. Nowadays, however, there are many ways to detect this affliction at an early stage and start treating it effectively.
Prostate – what is it?
The prostate is a gland of the male body and is mistakenly confused with the term prostatic hypertrophy. With age, the prostate can gradually enlarge and put pressure on the urethra. This, in turn, is the cause of many difficulties urinating and pain during this activity. In some cases, it can even cause an inability to expel urine. Disregarding the first symptoms indicating prostate problems (even for young men), can turn into a much worse descent. A visit to a specialist is essential, since an enlarged prostate can also be tantamount to cancer of this part of the body. As long as the prostate is healthy, few men are aware of its existence. The problem arises, however, when the organ begins to grow with age, putting pressure on surrounding tissues. After the age of 45, the risk of this problem increases significantly. Later, with age, the symptoms may worsen.
What are the symptoms of prostate hypertrophy?
Mild prostatic hypertrophy is a condition that progresses very slowly. This is primarily due to decreased production of the hormone testosterone, aging of the body, increased androgen levels, low physical activity, smoking and drinking alcohol, as well as a diet very low in vegetables and fruits. The passing of time causes prostate cells to multiply, enlarge the prostate and press against the urethra. Increasing flow through the urethra is in turn the reason for bladder hypersensitivity. Therefore, patients may also feel a frequent need to urinate. Prostate hypertrophy is thus accompanied by, among other things:
- Slow, weak or intermittent urine stream,
- Long and frequent urination,
- Feeling a sudden need to urinate while sleeping,
- Trouble starting to urinate,
- A feeling of the occurrence of partial emptying of the bladder,
- Increased effort during urination,
- Urine leakage,
- Pain when urinating.
It is worth remembering that these symptoms do not have to occur simultaneously. That is why it is worth going to a specialist as soon as you notice a worrying symptom. In addition, prostate hypertrophy significantly increases the possibility of developing urinary tract infections. Over time, it causes the formation and retention of stones in the bladder, the appearance of blood in the urine or the occurrence of complete urinary retention.
How to prevent prostate hypertrophy?
In order to prevent the development of prostate hypertrophy, detailed check-ups are helpful. In the initial symptoms of the condition, you can perform the Prostate PSA test yourself at home. It does not require complicated handling and gives quick results. Such a test is recommended for all men over the age of fifty. prostate test. Prostate prevention also means a proper diet – rich in fruits and vegetables. These products contain valuable vitamins, flavonoids and minerals that inhibit the inflammatory process in the body. They also reduce cellular aging. The diet should also be rich in products that contain substances such as lycopene, sitosterols and flavonoids that support drug treatment. Zinc, which is found in nuts, liver, legumes or sunflower seeds, is also very important. It helps normalize testosterone production and shrink the prostate. The consumption of salt, on the other hand, is discouraged, as it impairs hormonal balance. The most important issue in prostate prevention, however, is regular check-ups. The first visit to the urologist should take place as soon as you turn 30. Men in their fifties, on the other hand, should get regular urological examinations – especially if they notice trouble urinating. The diagnostic package for prostate hypertrophy also includes a prostate ultrasound.
healthy prostate, enlarged prostate
How to treat prostate hypertrophy?
Treatment of prostate hypertrophy depends on the symptoms of the condition and their severity. The initial stage can be effectively treated with pharmacotherapy. Medications effectively reduce smooth muscle tension in the urinary tract, decongest the bladder, improve urine flow and improve prostate elasticity. When medications have no effect, then surgery may be necessary. Regardless of the stage, however, the prostate needs to be consulted by a urologist. He will perform an ultrasound – a completely safe test through which he can observe possible prostate problems. The doctor will take a thorough medical history and determine comorbidities. Urological ultrasound is performed in the supine position. The doctor applies a special head to the patient's skin and makes the evaluated organ visible. Between the head and the skin there is a special gel, which allows the waves to penetrate and obtain a high quality ultrasound image. After the ultrasound is performed, a description of the examination is prepared, as well as photos showing any abnormalities in the structure of the organ.
How to treat the prostate by natural means?
Trouble caused by prostate hypertrophy can happen to any man. To delay this process or completely inhibit its progress, it is worth using natural ways even before the first symptoms appear. For this purpose, special herbs for the prostate are used. Since they are of natural origin, they are completely safe for health. The right blend supports the body and increases resistance to disease. By introducing herbs for the prostate into your daily diet, you can ensure that the ailments associated with this condition never occur. They alleviate symptoms and speed up healing, allowing a quick recovery. Slightly different herbs are reached for when you just want to protect against prostate hypertrophy, while others are used to reduce the symptoms of the condition. One popular herb for prostate, is sabal palm. It contains valuable substances that help deal with prostate hypertrophy. It works well in the mild course of the condition and minimizes its symptoms. It helps reduce frequent urination and bladder pressure. Maca root, on the other hand, is a plant that reduces the size of the prostate. It is therefore used to reduce the symptoms associated with prostate hypertrophy. Tribulus similarly to sabal palm prevents high levels of testosterone and DHT. As a result, it reduces the risk of prostate hypertrophy and minimizes their intensity. An equally popular plant for combating prostate hypertrophy, is fenugreek. The plant has a comprehensive effect on the body. It also increases the level of testosterone, so it works well in the prevention of prostate hypertrophy. Pumpkin seeds and the phytosterols present in them also affect the size of the prostate gland and prevent its growth. They also slow down the conversion of testosterone into DHT. Introducing pumpkin seeds into the diet helps not only in the prevention of prostate hypertrophy conditions, but also in the treatment of its symptoms. Catuaba, in turn, is a plant that supports the urinary system and improves its functioning. Equally helpful is nettle – a natural diuretic. It affects the urinary system and takes care of its proper work.
What herbs to use for prostate?
Natural herbs for the prostate can be taken in the form of infusions. There are also ready-made supplements available in capsules, tablets or powdered form. Dosing of herbs requires following the manufacturer's instructions. It is also important to maintain regularity in their consumption and to be systematic.
Does benign prostatic hyperplasia affect sex life?
The prostate is a very important organ that performs a vital function in the sexual life of men. It helps produce the fluid that transports sperm, is responsible for the occurrence and maintenance of erections, and also affects libido. Therefore, any condition related to the prostate gland can cause disorders of the male sexual area. Benign prostatic hyperplasia is not dangerous to a gentleman's overall health, but the discomforts it causes can be bothersome. These, in turn, affect men's well-being and sexual capabilities. A number of studies conducted clearly indicate that a strong connection can be observed between symptoms with the prostate (pushing on the bladder, frequent urination at night) and the quality of sexual life. In addition, numerous studies confirm that symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia may be associated with an altered balance of contraction and diastole of blood vessels. These in turn are dependent on, for example, nitric oxide and α1-adrenergic receptors. In practice, this means problems with achieving and maintaining an erection. In addition, benign prostatic hypertrophy is also often accompanied by hormonal changes and a decrease in testosterone levels. In men, this means a decrease in libido and problems with potency. Thus, the vast majority of prostate problems are associated with the occurrence of unfavorable, bothersome urinary complaints that affect men's sex lives. Therefore, men with prostatic hypertrophy should implement appropriate pharmacological or surgical treatment as soon as possible to stabilize the functioning of the prostate gland. As a result, this will also translate into an improved sex life.
Benign prostatic hypertrophy – is it worth treating it early?
Benign prostatic hypertrophy is a condition that can affect any man. However, it is important to remember that symptoms in the form of difficulty urinating or erectile dysfunction, for example, can result from a developing prostate cancer, which poses a great danger to the patient. Therefore, this condition should not be underestimated and it is worth seeing a doctor as soon as possible. Men should also understand that leading a healthy lifestyle can help avoid this condition.
Conclusion
Prostate hypertrophy is a common issue as men age, often causing urinary problems and impacting quality of life. Recognizing early signs, such as weak urine flow or frequent urination, and taking action is vital. Prevention through regular check-ups, a nutrient-rich diet, and natural remedies can slow or stop its progression. If diagnosed, effective options like medication, lifestyle changes, or professional care can help manage symptoms and improve well-being. Don't ignore your health—prioritize proactive steps for prevention and treatment. Early action makes all the difference for long-term comfort and confidence.
