What non-surgical options are available for reducing prostate size?

As men age, the prostate gland tends to grow in size, which can cause problems with urination and sexual function. While surgery is a common option for reducing prostate size, there are also non-surgical options available that can be just as effective. In this article, we will discuss the non-surgical options available for reducing prostate size.

Medications

1. There are several medications available that can help reduce the size of the prostate gland. Alpha-blockers are one type of medication that can help relax the muscles in the prostate gland and bladder neck, making it easier to urinate. Another type of medication is 5-alpha reductase inhibitors, which can help reduce the size of the prostate gland by blocking the production of hormones that cause it to grow.

Herbal supplements

2. Herbal supplements have been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments, including prostate problems. Saw palmetto, for example, is an herb that has been shown to reduce the size of the prostate gland and improve urinary symptoms in men with enlarged prostates. Other herbal supplements that may be beneficial for reducing prostate size include pygeum, stinging nettle, and rye grass pollen extract.

Lifestyle changes

3. Making certain lifestyle changes can also help reduce the size of the prostate gland. Eating a healthy diet that is low in fat and high in fruits and vegetables can help reduce inflammation in the prostate gland and improve urinary symptoms. Regular exercise can also help reduce the size of the prostate gland and improve overall prostate health.

Minimally invasive procedures

4. There are several minimally invasive procedures available for reducing prostate size. One such procedure is transurethral microwave therapy, which uses microwave energy to heat and destroy prostate tissue. Another procedure is transurethral needle ablation, which uses a needle to destroy prostate tissue with heat.

Acupuncture

5. Acupuncture is an alternative therapy that has been shown to improve urinary symptoms in men with enlarged prostates. The practice involves the insertion of needles into specific points on the body to stimulate the flow of energy and promote healing.

In conclusion, there are several non-surgical options available for reducing prostate size, including medications, herbal supplements, lifestyle changes, minimally invasive procedures, and acupuncture. While surgery is a common option, these non-surgical options can be just as effective and may be a better option for men who are not good candidates for surgery.

If you are experiencing symptoms of an enlarged prostate, it is important to talk to your doctor about your treatment options. Your doctor can help you determine the best course of action based on your individual needs and medical history.