Benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH, occurs when an enlarged prostate gland causes urinary problems. More than 50 percent of men in their 60s experience symptoms of BPH. Saw palmetto may help treat urinary problems in males with enlarged prostates, although research does not suggest that this herb helps bladder problems in women or in men who don't have BPH. Consult your doctor before treating medical problems with herbal remedies.
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
The male prostate gland continues to grow as you age. As the gland enlarges, it tends to press against your bladder, causing pressure on this organ. BPH is a common condition that affects most men during the later years, although it seldom occurs in men under the age of 40. Dietary changes, surgery, medicine and saw palmetto are common treatments for BPH.
Symptoms
Normal aging causes the bladder wall to thicken, while the growing prostate gland begins pressing against your urethra. This results in pressure and irritation that often leads to other symptoms. Common symptoms of BPH include urine retention, a weak stream of urine, sensations of urinary urgency, leaking of urine and frequent urination. An increased need to urinate during the night may disrupt your sleep. These symptoms can increase in severity and may lead to incontinence, bladder stones, urinary tract infections and bladder damage.
Saw Palmetto
Taking saw palmetto might benefit your prostate gland, according to the University of Alabama at Birmingham, although there is no scientific proof. Saw palmetto is a small palm that grows natively in some areas of the United States. The berries of this plant provide the substance for making the herbal remedy. Saw palmetto may help reduce bladder obstruction in men with BPH by reducing inflammation and absorbing male hormones in the prostate.
Precautions
Tell your doctor about any urinary problems or symptoms of BPH. Although this is a common condition in men, your doctor may need to rule out other causes of these symptoms. Saw palmetto can cause side effects, such as dizziness, constipation, vomiting, headache, insomnia and heart pain. Even though this herb may help reduce the symptoms of BPH, it is not a standard or proven remedy in the treatment or prevention of prostate cancer.
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