Prostate Gland: Its Growth Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

In this article, we will explore why the prostate gland is enlarged, its symptoms, treatment, natural remedies and how to prevent enlargement. Everything will be explained in simple and straightforward language, Insha'Allah.

Why is the prostate gland enlarged?

An enlarged prostate is common in men when they ‍are aged. This condition is known as BPH (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia) or mild prostatic hyperplasia. Here, the word "benign" means it is not cancerous, and "hyperplasia" means an increase in the number of cells, which leads to growth.

Causes of Prostate Enlargement:

Aging: When men are aged, the prostate naturally enlarges. BPH usually becomes more common after the age of 40 and affects most men over 50.

Hormonal changes: Hormones such as testosterone (male hormone) and estrogen (female hormone) affect prostate growth. When men are aged, the balance of these hormones changes, leading to growth flows.

Family history: If men in your family have experienced prostate enlargement, you may also be at higher risk.

Lifestyle Factors: Diet, lack of physical activity and obesity can contribute to prostate enlargement.

Symptoms of Enlarged Prostate

An enlarged prostate can lead to a variety of symptoms, especially related to urination, as it puts pressure on the urethra. Symptoms of an enlarged prostate include:

Frequent urination: You may feel the need to urinate frequently, especially at night.

Poor urine flow: Urine flow may be slower or weaker than normal.

Difficulty starting to urinate: It may take longer to start urinating, even though you feel the urge.

Incomplete emptying: You may feel like your bladder never completely empties after you urinate.

Urinary urge: There may be a strong and sudden urge to urinate.

Dribbling at the end of urination: Urination may continue even after you think you are finished.

If these symptoms are severe, the symptoms can affect your daily life and quality of sleep. If you experience these symptoms, it's important to talk to a doctor for proper evaluation and treatment.

Treatment options for enlarged prostate

There are several treatment options for treating an enlarged prostate. The type of treatment depends on the severity of the symptoms.

Medicines:

Alpha-blockers: These drugs relax the muscles around the bladder and prostate, making it easier to urinate. Examples include tamsulosin and alfuzosin.

5-alpha reductase inhibitors: These drugs reduce the size of the prostate by reducing the levels of hormones that cause it to grow. Examples include finasteride and dutasteride.

Consult an experienced doctor before consuming the above medicines.

Therapy methods:

Transurethral microwave therapy (TUMT): This procedure uses heat from microwaves to shrink the prostate.

Transurethral Needle Ablation (TUNA): Radiofrequency energy is used to shrink the prostate.

Surgical options:

Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP): This is the most common surgery for an enlarged prostate. It involves removing parts of the prostate to relieve symptoms.

Laser therapy: A laser is used to remove the overgrown prostate tissue.

Natural Remedies for Prostate Enlargement

Some men prefer natural remedies to cure mild symptoms of enlarged prostate. These remedies can complement medical treatment, but should always be discussed with a healthcare provider first.

Saw Palmetto Extract: This herbal supplement is widely used to reduce the symptoms of an enlarged prostate. It works by blocking certain hormones that contribute to prostate growth.

Pumpkin seeds: These seeds are rich in zinc, which is important for prostate health. Eating these can help reduce symptoms.

Stinging Nettle Root Powder : Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, stinging nettle root powder is often used to relieve urinary symptoms caused by BPH.

Green tea: It is rich in antioxidants that can help improve prostate health and reduce inflammation.

What else to do to avoid an enlarged prostate

Although aging is the main cause of prostate enlargement, there are other steps you can take to reduce the risk and maintain a healthy prostate:

Maintain a healthy diet: Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables and healthy fats. Foods rich in antioxidants can help prevent prostate problems.

Limit processed foods, red meat and dairy products that increase inflammation.

Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, but drink a small amount of water before bed to reduce urination at night.

Exercise regularly: Being active helps with weight control, which can reduce the risk of BPH. Walking, swimming and cycling are all great options.

Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight or obese increases the risk of developing BPH, so it's important to control your weight.

Limit caffeine and alcohol: These can irritate the bladder and increase the frequency of urination, so it is best to consume them in moderation.

Practice good bathroom habits: Don't hold urine for too long, as it can stress the bladder and prostate.

Get regular checkups: Men over 50 should see their doctor regularly for prostate health monitoring. Early detection of any prostate problem can prevent more serious complications.

The prostate gland plays a key role in men's health, but it's common for men to get enlarged prostates when they are aged. Although this condition, known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is not cancerous, it can cause uncomfortable urination symptoms. Fortunately, there are many medical and natural remedies available to effectively manage the symptoms. By maintaining a healthy lifestyle, getting regular checkups and being active, men can reduce their risk of developing an enlarged prostate and maintain their overall well-being.