Frequent bathroom trips? Trouble starting urination? Weak stream? It could be BPH (an enlarged prostate), and it can disrupt your daily life in frustrating ways. Many men think their options are limited to long-term medication or surgery. Neither may be an ideal solution. Medications may cause side effects like fatigue or sexual dysfunction. Surgery often requires downtime and can carry added risks, especially with age or other health concerns.
For men who want relief but don’t want to rely on daily pills or face invasive procedures, there are alternatives. A minimally invasive treatment may be the best option to treat BPH without surgery or meds.
How to Treat BPH Without Surgery or Meds
Several options are available that relieve symptoms without the need for medication or surgery. These procedures are usually done in outpatient settings. They're often done under local anesthesia, and most require minimal downtime for recovery.
Rezum
Rezum therapy uses water vapor to target and shrink the excess prostate tissue. A precise jet of steam is delivered through a small device inserted into the urethra. The steam damages the excess tissue, and the body responds by absorbing it. As the tissue shrinks over the following weeks, urinary symptoms begin to improve.
Rezum is often a good fit for men who want to preserve sexual function and avoid long-term medication. Most patients return to regular activities within a few days. Complete relief of urinary symptoms may take several weeks as the prostate gradually shrinks.
UroLift
UroLift is a mechanical solution that works without removing or destroying tissue. Instead, it uses tiny implants to hold the enlarged prostate tissue away from the urethra, making it easier to urinate. The result is improved flow and reduced frequency or urgency.
Because no tissue is removed or heated, the risk of sexual side effects is low. UroLift is an outpatient procedure and typically allows for a quick recovery. Some men notice improvement within a few days, while others may take a few weeks to see maximum benefit.
GreenLight Laser Therapy
GreenLight laser therapy uses focused laser energy to remove overgrown prostate tissue. This procedure is more involved than Rezum or UroLift, but it is still minimally invasive. It’s often done as a same-day procedure and can provide faster symptom relief.
GreenLight may be a good choice for men with larger prostates or those who need quicker results. While there may be a brief recovery period, the procedure has a long track record of success.
Prostatic Artery Embolization (PAE)
PAE is a non-surgical procedure performed by an interventional radiologist. It works by injecting small particles into the arteries that supply blood to the prostate. This reduces blood flow, causing the prostate to shrink over time.
PAE is done through a small catheter inserted into the groin or wrist. It does not require general anesthesia and carries a low risk of side effects. It’s a good option for men who aren’t candidates for other procedures or who prefer a non-invasive approach.
Finding the Right Fit
Each of these procedures offers a unique approach to treating BPH. More importantly, you can avoid the side effects of medications and the risks associated with surgery. The right option depends on factors like the size of your prostate and your medical history. It also depends on your personal goals, which may be to preserve sexual function, minimize downtime, or get fast relief.
If BPH symptoms are impacting your quality of life, there’s no need to wait. Take the first step to reclaiming your life and talk with an experienced urologist about your options.
Don't continue to suffer - schedule an appointment today!