What is the best way to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)?
Disease description:
My elderly family member has recently been experiencing some benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Doctor, I would like to ask, what is the best way to treat this condition?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Cao Zhiqiang
The treatment methods for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) include the following:
1. Lifestyle modifications: Increase physical activity, reduce alcohol and caffeine intake, avoid prolonged sitting, and maintain regular urination. Improving lifestyle habits, such as reducing consumption of spicy foods, avoiding alcohol, and engaging in appropriate exercise, can also help alleviate symptoms.
2. Physical therapies: Such as microwave thermotherapy and laser treatment, which may be suitable for certain patients, but must be performed under a doctor's guidance.
3. Surgical treatment: If medication is ineffective or complications arise, such as recurrent urinary tract infections, urinary retention, or bladder stones, surgical treatment may be considered.
4. α1-Adrenergic receptor blockers: Such as tamsulosin, which relaxes the muscles of the prostate and bladder neck, thereby relieving difficulty in urination.
5. 5α-Reductase inhibitors: Such as finasteride, which inhibits the conversion of testosterone to the more potent dihydrotestosterone, slows the progression of prostate enlargement, and can reduce prostate volume with long-term use.
6. Botanical extracts: Such as saw palmetto extract, which has mild symptom-relieving effects and fewer side effects.
