The actual cause of prostate enlargement is unknown. Factors linked to aging and changes in the cells of the testicles may have a role in the growth of the gland, as well as testosterone levels. Men who have had their testicles removed at a young age (for example, as a result of testicular cancer) do not develop BPH.
Many people worry that having an enlarged prostate means they have an increased risk of developing prostate cancer. This isn't the case. The risk of prostate cancer is no greater for people with an enlarged prostate than it is for those without an enlarged prostate.
Limit caffeine and alcohol as these may stimulate the urge to urinate. Eat a low-fat diet. Eat a large variety of vegetables each day. Eat a few servings of fruit daily, and be sure to include citrus fruits.
Left untreated, an enlarged prostate can lead to a sudden inability to urinate, cause urinary tract infections and bladder or kidney damage.
A health care provider or urologist may prescribe medications that stop the growth of or shrink the prostate or reduce symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia: alpha blockers. phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors. 5-alpha reductase inhibitors.
Exercise that is good for your heart is also good for prostate and sexual health. Do 30 minutes of aerobic exercise, like swimming, biking, speed walking, or hiking on most days of the week. You can also add in strength training exercises like working with free weights or weight machines on alternating days.
An enlarged prostate does not lead to prostate cancer or testicular cancer. However, BPH won't go away on its own, and it can have a major effect on your quality of life and health if left untreated.
Both green tea and hibiscus tea are among the top drinks for prostate health. Both types of tea contain potent antioxidants. Studies show that green tea can help prevent prostate cancer from forming and may also slow the growth of aggressive prostate cancer.
Transurethral resection of prostate (TURP) is considered as the gold standard surgical treatment of benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH).
Alpha blockers begin to work quickly and are usually recommended as a first-line treatment for men with mild to moderate symptoms. The most important side effects of alpha blockers are dizziness and low blood pressure after sitting or standing up.
5-Alpha-Reductase Inhibitors
In some men, finasteride can relieve BPH symptoms, increase urinary flow rate and shrink the prostate, though it must be used indefinitely to prevent recurrence of symptoms, and it may take as long as six months to achieve maximum benefits.
Research on black coffee and prostate cancer has shown that men who consumed six or more cups of coffee per day had a nearly 20% lower risk of developing prostate cancer. The protective benefit is even higher for more aggressive forms of prostate cancer, with a 60% lower risk.
Reduce the amount of dairy products you eat each day.
In studies, men who ate the most dairy products — such as milk, cheese and yogurt — each day had the highest risk of prostate cancer.
Alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it increases urination. This can be problematic for men with an enlarged prostate, as it can worsen urinary symptoms such as a frequent urge to urinate or a weak urine stream.
BPH might be life-disrupting, but with the right care and the correct approach to fluids, it's possible for most men to minimize their symptoms and live comfortably with an enlarged prostate.
While it's difficult to completely reverse an enlarged prostate, there are several treatments that can relieve symptoms, reduce the size of the prostate and help restore normal urine flow. In fact, many men with prostate enlargement are able to achieve a positive quality of life with non-surgical treatments.