The prostate gland is a key part of the male reproductive tract that's similar in shape and size to a walnut. One of its fundamental jobs is to produce a fluid that's mixed with sperm to create semen. By age 60, nearly half of all men will have an enlarged prostate, known medically as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia or BPH, notes the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center or UPMC. An enlarged prostate can cause urination problems or protatism. As time goes on the bladder wall may grow thicken and lead to muscle spasms.. A number of non-surgical treatments, herbs, lifestyle changes and exercises may all promote a healthy prostate. Always check with your doctor about using herbs for health conditions.
Transurethral Treatments
Non-surgical treatment options for an enlarged prostate include Transurethral therapy methods, according to the UPMC. Transurethral microwave thermotherapy or TUMT, kills off extra prostate tissue causing the gland to shrink which improves urine flow. Transurethral needle ablation or TUNA burns off sections of an enlarged prostate with the use of radio frequency. TUNA therapy basically scars prostate tissue, causing it to become smaller which improves urine flow.
Laser Therapy
Laser surgery can remove excess prostate tissue, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center or UMMC. The specific type of laser used will depend on the precise area of the surplus tissue and the size of the prostate
Herbs and Dietary Supplements
Certain herbs may help minimize symptoms of an enlarged prostate, according to the UMMC. Saw palmetto may improve prostate health by encouraging urine flow and relieving the frequent urge to urinate. African pygeum may help diminish common urinary symptoms of an enlarged prostate. Beta-sitosterol is a cholesterol-like compound contained in plants that appears to improve urinary flow. Check with your health care provider about using herbs for prostate health as they are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration.
Lifestyle Factors
Drugs such as decongestants, tranquilizers and antihistamines can worsen symptoms of BHP, according to Intelihealth. Talk to your doctor about possible medication adjustments. Cutting back on your intake of liquids in the hours leading up to bedtime may prevent nighttime urination. Drinking more than 2 alcoholic beverages per day may aggravate the prostate and bladder.
Kegal Exercises
Performing Kegal exercises may decrease symptoms of BPH, according to the UMMC. Kegel exercises are the intentional tightening of the pelvic muscles. When done on a regular basis Kegal exercises can strength the muscles responsible for holding in urine, notes the UPMC. Kegel exercises can be performed while standing or sitting.
