How to Treat Prostate Problems in Men? | Complete Medical Guide

As men age, many experience urinary problems caused by an enlargement of the prostate, known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or prostate adenoma. Although this condition is non-cancerous, it can significantly affect quality of life, leading to symptoms such as frequent urination, weak urine flow, difficulty starting urination, and nighttime awakenings.

How to Treat Prostate Problems in Men? | Complete Medical Guide

Fortunately, several effective treatment options are available today—ranging from conventional medications and natural remedies to lifestyle changes and innovative minimally invasive procedures such as prostatic artery embolization (PAE).

This complete guide explains how to treat prostate enlargement safely and effectively.

What Is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)?

Benign prostatic hyperplasia is a common condition in aging men in which the prostate gland gradually increases in size and compresses the urethra. This compression disrupts normal urine flow and causes lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS).

1. Conventional Medical Treatments for an Enlarged Prostate

Medical treatment is often the first-line approach for managing BPH symptoms. It aims to relieve urinary discomfort and slow disease progression. Two main categories of medications are commonly prescribed:

Alpha-Blockers (e.g., Tamsulosin)

• Relax the muscles of the prostate and bladder neck

• Improve urine flow

• Fast-acting (results within days)

5-Alpha-Reductase Inhibitors (e.g., Finasteride, Dutasteride)

• Reduce prostate size over time

• Effects appear after several months

In some cases, both medications are combined for better symptom control.

⚠️ Possible side effects include reduced libido, erectile dysfunction, and retrograde ejaculation. These treatments must always be prescribed and monitored by a physician.

2. Herbal and Natural Remedies for Prostate Health

Phytotherapy may help relieve mild to moderate urinary symptoms, especially when used as a complementary approach:

• Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens): One of the most studied plant extracts for BPH symptom relief

• Pygeum africanum: Anti-inflammatory properties

• Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica): Diuretic and anti-inflammatory effects

• Rye Pollen Extract (Cernilton): Improves urinary comfort

While natural remedies may be beneficial, men should consult a healthcare professional to avoid interactions with medications.

3. 10 Daily Habits to Relieve Prostate Symptoms Naturally

Adopting healthy lifestyle habits can significantly improve urinary comfort and slow the progression of BPH:

1. Limit fluids in the evening

2. Reduce caffeine intake (coffee, tea, soda)

3. Limit alcohol consumption

4. Avoid spicy foods

5. Urinate as soon as the urge appears

6. Take time to empty the bladder completely

7. Maintain a healthy body weight

8. Exercise regularly (walking, swimming)

9. Avoid constipation and heavy straining

10. Schedule regular prostate checkups

4. Prostatic Artery Embolization (PAE): A Modern Minimally Invasive Treatment

When medications are ineffective or poorly tolerated, prostatic artery embolization offers an innovative alternative.

What Is Prostatic Artery Embolization?

PAE is performed by an interventional radiologist under local anesthesia. A microcatheter is inserted through an artery in the wrist or groin and guided to the arteries supplying the prostate. Tiny particles are then injected to reduce blood flow, causing the prostate to shrink and relieving urinary symptoms.

Benefits of Prostate Embolization

• No surgery or incision

• No general anesthesia

• Low risk of sexual side effects

• No routine urinary catheter

• Fast recovery, often outpatient

PAE is suitable for patients who want to avoid surgery or are not candidates for traditional prostate procedures. A thorough evaluation using MRI or ultrasound is required beforehand.

Conclusion

Prostate problems are not inevitable with aging. Today, men have access to a wide range of effective treatments—from medications and natural remedies to lifestyle changes and cutting-edge minimally invasive procedures like prostatic artery embolization.

With proper medical follow-up and healthy daily habits, it is entirely possible to manage prostate enlargement successfully and maintain a good quality of life.

Medical Sources and References

• Mayo Clinic – Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

• National Institutes of Health (NIH) – Prostate Enlargement

• European Association of Urology (EAU) Guidelines on BPH

• American Urological Association (AUA) – BPH Clinical Guidelines

• World Journal of Urology – Prostatic Artery Embolization Studies

• Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews – Herbal Treatments for BPH