"What Are the Effects of an Enlarged Prostate and How Can It Be Treated?"
Effects of Enlarged Prostate and Their Management Strategies
The impact of an enlarged prostate encompasses various aspects such as difficulty urinating, frequent and urgent urination, incontinence, renal function impairment, and hematuria. Detailed analyses are as follows:
1. Difficulty Urinating
This may manifest as a thin urine stream, weak urination, and prolonged urination time, ultimately leading to urinary retention in severe cases, affecting quality of life. Medical treatments like α-blockers can be employed to relax the smooth muscles of the prostate and bladder neck, thereby alleviating urination difficulties.
2. Frequent and Urgent Urination
Frequent trips to the bathroom, especially nocturia, can disrupt sleep, leading to fatigue and lethargy. Anticholinergic medications can reduce bladder overactivity, alleviating these symptoms. Additionally, avoiding excessive fluid intake before bedtime is advisable.
3. Incontinence
Involuntary leakage of urine may occur during coughing, laughing, or any activity that increases abdominal pressure, causing psychological stress and social embarrassment. Pelvic floor muscle training can strengthen these muscles, aiding in incontinence control. Severe cases may necessitate surgical intervention.
4. Renal Function Impairment
Prolonged untreated prostate enlargement can cause bladder outlet obstruction, leading to urine reflux and renal function damage. Timely relief of urinary obstruction is crucial, with surgical options like transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) being available based on the condition, to protect renal function.
5. Hematuria
Enlarged prostate may rupture blood vessels on its surface, causing hematuria and instilling fear in patients. Mild hematuria can be monitored with increased water intake and avoidance of strenuous exercise. Severe cases require further examination and appropriate hemostatic measures.
The effects of an enlarged prostate on patients cannot be overlooked. Upon the onset of related symptoms, prompt medical attention, comprehensive examination, and assessment are essential. Physicians will devise individualized treatment plans based on patients' specific conditions. Additionally, maintaining good lifestyle habits such as avoiding prolonged sitting, engaging in moderate exercise, quitting smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption can facilitate recovery and prevent disease progression.
