What are common treatment options for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)?

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition in older men, characterized by an enlarged prostate that can lead to urinary difficulties. The usual treatment options include a combination of medications and, in some cases, surgical interventions.

Medications, such as alpha-blockers, help relax the muscles of the prostate and bladder neck, which can alleviate urinary symptoms. Additionally, 5-alpha reductase inhibitors may be used to reduce the actual size of the prostate over time. When medications are not effective, surgical procedures, such as transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) or laser therapy, can provide relief by removing excess prostate tissue.

The other options are limited in effectiveness or scope. While lifestyle changes can play a supportive role in managing mild symptoms, they are not sufficient as standalone treatments for BPH. Radiation therapy is not typically used to treat BPH, as it is primarily reserved for prostate cancer treatment. Strict diet management may contribute to overall health but does not directly address the anatomical changes associated with BPH. Therefore, the combination of medications and surgical interventions is recognized as the most comprehensive approach to effectively manage the condition.