If you’re constantly rushing to the bathroom or waking up multiple times a night, you know how frustrating an enlarged prostate can be. As the prostate enlarges with age, it can put pressure on the urethra and disrupt your daily life, not to mention your sleep. Some men may wonder if surgery is their only option to feel better.
Fortunately, there are alternatives to BPH surgery. Many men are able to manage symptoms with medication or minimally invasive treatments.
Medication for BPH
For many men with mild to moderate symptoms, medications are the first treatment option. These drugs can help improve urine flow and ease urgency, often without the need for more invasive treatments. They are especially helpful in smaller prostates.
Alpha blockers
Tamsulosin, alfuzosin, and silodosin are commonly prescribed alpha blockers. These medications work by relaxing the muscles around the bladder and prostate, making it easier to urinate. They're usually taken once a day and are generally well tolerated. They typically begin to work within a few days to a week. Some men may respond better to one medication over another, depending on how their body handles the side effects.
5-Alpha reductase inhibitors
Finasteride and dutasteride lower levels of the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which contributes to prostate growth. Over time, this can shrink the prostate by 20 to 25%, relieve pressure on the urethra, and lessen the need for surgery. However, these drugs take several months to work.
Combination therapy
For men with larger prostates or more bothersome symptoms, doctors often prescribe both an alpha blocker and a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor. This dual approach can offer faster relief while also treating the underlying enlargement.
Tadalafil (Cialis)
Originally developed for erectile dysfunction, tadalafil has also been FDA-approved to treat BPH. When taken daily, it helps relax muscle tissue in the bladder and prostate, improving both urination and, in some cases, sexual function.
Minimally Invasive Alternatives to BPH Surgery
The good news is that you may not need traditional surgery. Today, several minimally invasive procedures are available. They shrink or remove prostate tissue without the need for cutting or stitches. These non-surgical treatments can improve symptoms while avoiding the risks that come with more invasive options.
UroLift
UroLift uses tiny implants to gently hold back the enlarged prostate tissue, opening the urethra and restoring urine flow. This treatment is best suited for men with a prostate size between 30 and 80 grams who do not have a prominent middle lobe. It is typically performed in an outpatient setting, offers a quick recovery, and does not affect ejaculation or erections.
Rezūm Water Vapor Therapy
Rezūm uses natural water vapor (steam) to shrink excess prostate tissue. The steam is injected directly into the prostate, where it destroys the part responsible for blocking urine flow. Over time, the body naturally reabsorbs this treated tissue, helping to relieve symptoms. Rezūm is ideal for men with moderate to severe BPH symptoms and prostates measuring between 30 and 80 grams. It is performed in an outpatient setting, preserves sexual function, and most men begin to notice symptom improvement within a few weeks.
GreenLight Laser Therapy
GreenLight laser therapy uses targeted laser energy to vaporize excess prostate tissue. Delivered through a thin scope inserted into the urethra, the laser precisely removes the blockage. Its precision allows for less bleeding and reduced trauma to surrounding tissue. This outpatient procedure is appropriate for men experiencing moderate to severe BPH symptoms and offers quick symptom improvement.
Talk with a Urologist About Alternatives to BPH Surgery
A urologist can help guide you to the right therapy based on prostate size and your symptoms. There are many options, including low-risk procedures that can bring relief without a major operation.
Don't continue to live with the unwanted symptoms of BPH - schedule an appointment today!