What Treatment Options Are Available for an Enlarged Prostate in Men Over 65?

Hello,

We understand your concern about the prostate enlargement that has been troubling you for the past year. Enlarged prostate is common in men above 65, and treatment is available to help improve urine flow and reduce discomfort. The right treatment depends on the size of the prostate, your symptoms, and your overall health.

What causes an enlarged prostate?

The prostate is a small gland located below the bladder. As men get older, it can become enlarged and press on the tube through which urine passes. This may cause difficulty starting urination, a weak urine stream, frequent urination, dribbling, or waking up repeatedly at night to urinate.

What treatment is available?

Please consult a urologist, a doctor who treats prostate and urinary problems, to decide the best treatment.

• Medicines: The doctor may prescribe medicines to relax the prostate muscles and improve urine flow, or medicines that gradually reduce prostate growth.

• Prostate operation: If symptoms are severe, medicines do not help, or the prostate causes complications, an operation may be recommended.

• TURP: This is a common procedure in which the doctor removes the extra prostate tissue through a thin instrument passed through the urinary opening. There is no cut on the outside of the body.

• Laser treatment: Some patients may be suitable for laser procedures to remove or reduce the extra prostate tissue.

Not every patient needs an operation. The urologist will recommend the most suitable option after examining the patient and reviewing the test reports.

What precautions should you take?

• Reduce tea, coffee and other caffeinated drinks, especially in the evening.

• Avoid drinking large amounts of fluid just before bedtime, but drink enough water during the day.

• Do not hold urine for a long time; visit the toilet when needed.

• Prevent constipation by eating fibre-rich foods such as vegetables, fruits and whole grains.

• Stay physically active according to your ability and your doctor's advice.

• Tell your doctor about all medicines you take, especially cold or allergy medicines, as some can worsen urinary symptoms.

• Do not start, stop or change medicines without medical advice.

What tests be needed?

The doctor may recommend a urine test, blood tests, a PSA blood test when appropriate, an ultrasound of the prostate and bladder, and a test to measure urine flow. These tests help identify the cause of the symptoms and decide whether an operation is needed.

When should you seek urgent medical help?

Go to the hospital immediately if you cannot pass urine at all, have severe lower abdominal pain, develop fever or chills with urinary symptoms, or notice blood in your urine.

Since the problem has lasted for one year, please arrange a urologist appointment rather than relying only on home remedies. Early assessment can help prevent complications and guide you towards the right treatment.

Wishing you and your family good health always.
Warm regards,
Team HexaHealth