If you have benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) following a diet for enlarged prostate can help with symptom management. Of course, the only way to find lasting relief is to seek treatment that shrinks your prostate. But, if you're still researching treatment options, try making the following changes to your diet in order to improve your quality of life.

What's the Best Diet for Enlarged Prostate?

If you're experiencing BPH symptoms such as urinary frequency and difficulty with urinary flow, one of the best ways to relieve these lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) is with a medical procedure such as prostatic artery embolization procedure.

Including certain foods, while removing others, may help improve symptoms, especially those of urgency and night-time waking to urinate. Be sure to:

• Avoid high fat foods
• Eat more and many different vegetables
• Add lots of citrus and other fruits to your daily routine
• Incorporate more lean proteins like fish and poultry

Slowing Prostate Cancer Through Diet

In addition to playing a role in BPH management, new data published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology shows how diet can help after a prostate cancer diagnosis. UCLA Health Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center researchers learned that a low omega-6, high omega-3 fatty acid diet, combined with fish oil supplements, could slow the growth of cancer cells in men with early-stage prostate cancer.

Dr. William Aronson, the lead study author, said, “Many men are interested in lifestyle changes, including diet, to help manage their cancer and prevent the progression of their disease. Our findings suggest that something as simple as adjusting your diet could potentially slow cancer growth and extend the time before more aggressive interventions are needed." He concluded, “This is an important step toward understanding how diet can potentially influence prostate cancer outcomes.”

Manage BPH with Other Lifestyle Measures

Now we've seen how diet can impact prostate health, lets look at other lifestyle measures to support prostate health. Aside from following a diet for enlarged prostate, there are other little changes you can make to relieve some of your BPH symptoms. Make sure to lose weight if you're above a healthy number, and, regardless of your weight, try exercising at a moderate to vigorous level, most days of the week.

Next, cut back on caffeine and alcohol, since both increase the need to urinate. And avoid drinking anything within a few hours of bedtime to reduce middle of the night wakings. Finally, if you're looking for more lasting relief from BPH, Click here to request an appointment at the Georgia Prostate Institute. Together, we'll discover if you are a candidate for PAE!

If you’re experiencing back and leg pain and suspect it might be linked to an enlarged prostate, you’re not alone. An enlarged prostate can lead to discomfort in these areas, often due to conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostatitis (prostate inflammation), or even prostate cancer.

Keep reading to discover how an enlarged prostate can contribute to back and leg pain and learn about effective treatment options to help relieve your discomfort and improve your quality of life.

Enlarged Prostate Symptoms

The most common symptoms of an enlarged prostate are described as LUTS, or lower urinary tract symptoms. These include:  

• Difficulty urinating.
• The urgent, sometimes uncontrollable, need to urinate, even leading to incontinence.
• Urine that leaks or dribbles.

• Frequent need to urinate.
• Slow starting or weak urinary flow.
• Urine flow that stops and starts.
• Nocturia.

If you have an enlarged prostate along with symptoms like hip, lower back, or abdomen pain,  unexplained weight loss, swelling or numbness in the legs, new erectile dysfunction, or blood in the urine, talk your doctor immediately. These signs could indicate a more serious condition, like prostate cancer.

Dealing with Back Pain From an Enlarged Prostate

When managing prostate back pain, a combination of lifestyle changes and medical treatments can help.

Strengthening exercises for the lower back may provide relief, but it’s important to avoid activities like cycling that could put extra strain on the area.

You may also find relief from back pain and other mild BPH symptoms by adjusting your diet and hydration, such as increasing fiber intake and drinking more water during the day, while limiting fluids before bed time.

However, if your symptoms become moderate to severe, a medical procedure may be needed to relieve the effects of BPH. Since conditions like prostatitis (prostate inflammation) and prostate cancer can also cause prostate enlargement and similar symptoms, further evaluation may be necessary to determine the right treatment approach.

Treatment for an Enlarged Prostate

If you’re struggling with painful leg and back symptoms due to an enlarged prostate, treatment options are available that can provide much-needed relief.

Identifying the cause of prostate enlargement is crucial for guiding your next steps. But if BPH is the issues, you may be able to avoid surgery and enhance your quality of life by considering Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) treatment. This minimally invasive procedure reduces the size of the prostate by blocking blood flow to the gland, all without major incisions or general anesthesia. Available at the Georgia Prostate Institute, you can request a consultation  to learn more about PAE and assess your candidacy for this effective BPH treatment option.

Symptoms such as urgent or frequent urination; waking in the night to urinate; or struggling to start or stop urinary flow could indicate benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). But how are doctors diagnosing BPH? Here's what you need to know.

Causes of an Enlarged Prostate

What is BPH? This is a condition in which prostate cells experience accelerated growth, leading to gland enlargement. Affecting approximately 50% of men over the age of 50, prostate enlargement can create on the urethra, triggering BPH symptoms that mostly affect the lower urinary tract.

Diagnosing BPH

If you visit your doctor complaining of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS) such as the ones highlighted above, the healthcare provider should begin the process of diagnosing BPH or ruling out other conditions such as infections or prostate cancer.

The first step will likely be a digital rectal exam. Your doctor with insert a gloved finger into the rectum to feel for prostate enlargement or other abnormalities. Blood tests can check your prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels, with results indicating the presence or lack of prostate enlargement.  Additional diagnostics, including urine tests; ultrasounds; or a biopsy may be necessary to finalize a diagnosis, whether that means diagnosing BPH or determining a different cause of prostate enlargement.

Choosing Treatments for BPH

After diagnosing BPH, you can begin exploring treatment options. Some men may find symptom relief by improving their diets, managing their fluid intake, and removing triggers such as alcohol or caffeine. Medications may offer BPH relief, along with the added benefit of protection from Lewy body dementia , according to this study. However, for men who don't find sufficient symptom relief by choosing these treatment options, Prostatic Artery Embolization (PAE), may be a better way forward. This is a minimally-invasive interventional radiology procedure; it shrinks the prostate with fewer side effects than surgery. To learn more about PAE and see if you're a candidate for this procedure, simply request a consultation at the Georgia Prostate Institute.

Most men will develop an enlarged prostate in their lifetime. But what’s the average onset age for enlarged prostate concerns? Well, the risk for BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia) increases as you age, since your prostate gland continues growing with you. This post highlights age-related prostate risks, while also highlighting BPH treatment options.

By the Decade Guide to Age for Enlarged Prostate

In each decade, your prostate health will differ. Here is a general guideline of what to expect.  

• 20-40: The prostate gland hasn’t grown enlarged, and should be about the size of a walnut 
• 40-50: Mild prostate enlargement may have occurred, but most men won’t experience BPH symptoms at this age
• 51–60: BPH is a problem for about 50% of men in this age group
• 60 - 70: Around 70% of men this age have developed BPH 
• 70-80: This is the age for enlarged prostate for 80% of all men  
• Older than 80: More than 90% of men in this age group have BPH 

Now, BPH is not prostate cancer, but the two conditions share some common symptoms. For that reason, you should seek medical attention As such, it’s important to seek timely medical attention if you notice any of the symptoms highlighted below.

BPH Symptoms to Watch For

When your prostate becomes enlarged, it presses against the bladder and urethra, leading to difficulties urinating. Some men need to urinate frequently; experience urgency; or find it hard to empty the bladder completely. Your urinary flow may be weak; interrupted; or it may be difficult to stop or start the flow. However, with BPH treatment, you can resolve many of these concerns.

Addressing an Enlarged Prostate

Once you reach the age for enlarged prostate, you may make lifestyle modifications such as:  

• Scheduling regular bathroom visits
• Avoiding alcohol and caffeine, particularly at night
• Stopping all fluid intake two hours prior to bedtime
• Exercising regularly
• Trying a diet for enlarged prostate
• Reducing or managing stress

Medications could also help with symptom relief, but for more persistent concerns, a medical procedure may be the best treatment option.

PAE in Georgia: Relief for BPH

Here at the Georgia Prostate Institute, we relieve BPH with prostatic artery embolization (PAE.) This minimally invasive procedure allows you to shrink your prostate without surgery. request a consultation today to see if you’re a candidate for PAE. 

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer are two of the most common conditions that affect the prostate.

The prostate gland is a small, walnut-shaped organ located below the bladder, between the base of the penis and the rectum. It is responsible for supplying part of your seminal fluid and plays a role in ejaculation.

In both BPH and prostate cancer, the prostate gland becomes enlarged. However, BPH is a benign, non-cancerous condition that cannot spread. Prostate cancer, on the other hand, can spread to different parts of the body and organs if left untreated.

So, how can you tell the difference between BPH vs prostate cancer? Keep reading to understand BPH and prostate cancer basics, learn their key differences, how to tell their symptoms apart, and when to seek medical treatment.

The Basics of BPH

BPH is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland caused by abnormal cell growth that causes enlargement and pressure on the urethra. While we don’t know why some men develop BPH, the following factors may increase your risk:

• Being age 50 or older.
• Living a sedentary lifestyle.
• Living with obesity.
• Experiencing erectile dysfunction (ED).
• Having a family history of BPH.

The Basics of Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is a malignant tumor that forms within the prostate gland. When cancerous cells grow abnormally, they require medical intervention to avoid metastasis (spreading).

Unlike some cancers, prostate cancer is often slow-growing. This means it can be asymptomatic in the early stages of development, making it difficult to diagnose without regular diagnostic and preventive screening tests.

While there is some overlap between BPH and prostate cancer risk factors, like being over age 50 and having a family history, risk factors for prostate cancer vary slightly. Additional risk factors include:

• Following a diet high in fat
• Being of African American or Caribbean descent.

Comparison Between Prostate Cancer and BPH Symptoms

When it comes to diagnosing BPH and prostate cancer, there are similarities and differences. But how can you tell the difference?

Symptoms common to both BPH and prostate cancer include:

• An urgent and frequent need to urinate, especially in the night.
• A weak, slow, or interrupted urine flow.
• Difficulty urinating.

Men experiencing BPH symptoms may feel like their bladder hasn’t emptied, even after they’ve just urinated. They may also need to strain or push to start the flow of urine, and—even when urine starts flowing—it may be difficult to produce more than a dribble.

However, as prostate cancer progresses, you may notice the following symptoms:

• Burning sensation during urination.
• Blood in your urine or semen.
• Persistent pain in the pelvis, hips, backs, or bones.
• Pain while urinating or ejaculating.

If you are having difficulty discerning symptoms of BPH vs prostate cancer, seeking medical evaluation for proper diagnosis and treatment is crucial to avoid complications.

When To See a Doctor for BPH (or Prostate Cancer)

If you’re experiencing any symptoms of BPH or prostate cancer, visit your doctor right away.

They can assess your symptoms and help determine the root cause of your pain and discomfort.

What to Expect During a BPH/Prostate Cancer Screening Appointment

During your visit, your healthcare provider may conduct the following:

• A digital rectal exam to detect any changes in your prostate’s size, texture, or firmness. The exam can also identify areas that are tender or painful and identify unusual growths or lumps in the prostate.
• A prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test to measure the amount of PSA in your blood. PSA is a protein produced by the prostate gland that plays a role in fertility. Normal PSA levels range between one and four.

BPH vs prostate cancer PSA levels can be four or higher and indicate prostate enlargement.

However, heightened PSA levels alone cannot differentiate prostate cancer vs BPH because it is common for both conditions to have it.

For this reason, your doctor may also need to take a small tissue sample from your prostate (known as a biopsy) to examine it for cancerous cells.

BPH vs Prostate Cancer Treatment Options

Once the cause of your urinary tract symptoms and prostate enlargement is accurately diagnosed, you can begin exploring treatment options.

As most cases of prostate cancer are typically slow-growing, your doctor may advise watching your condition before beginning any medical interventions. However, you may need a more aggressive treatment approach, such as:

• Hormone therapy
• Immunotherapy
• Radiation therapy
• Chemotherapy
• Focal therapy
• Surgery

If you are diagnosed with BPH, you can often manage symptoms with lifestyle changes and medications. If these treatment options do not provide relief, the skilled specialists at Georgia Prostate Institute invite you to explore our prostatic artery embolization treatment. PAE treatment for BPH is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure that helps alleviate urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate.

Request a consultation today to begin your journey toward long-term relief and improved quality of life.

Are you interested in exploring prostate massage to relieve uncomfortable urinary symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)?

While there is some evidence to suggest massaging the prostate may help release excess seminal fluid from the prostate gland ducts and temporarily alleviate urinary symptoms, BPH massage is not considered a lasting treatment for medical conditions.

Keep reading to learn what BPH is, available treatment options, and the benefits of prostate massage for temporary relief.

Understanding BPH

BPH, also known as an enlarged prostate, is a non-cancerous condition that affects the prostate gland in men as they age.

An enlarged prostate gland can press your bladder and urethra, causing BPH symptoms like

• Difficulty emptying your bladder.
• Reduced or weakened urine flow.
• Difficulty starting or stopping the flow of urine.
• Urinary urgency or a sudden need to urinate, with little to no warning.

BPH symptoms are not life-threatening, but the symptoms can be very unpleasant and make it difficult to get through your daily activities. As a result, many men struggling with symptoms of an enlarged prostate seek out effective treatment options.

Treatment Options for BPH

Georgia Prostate Institute offers several BPH treatment options, depending on the severity of your symptoms.

Some men with mild symptoms can successfully manage their symptoms through lifestyle changes, such as:

• Limiting or avoiding caffeine or alcohol.
• Limiting or avoiding spicy foods.
• Following a healthy diet.
• Staying hydrated and physically active.

Unfortunately, lifestyle modifications are not enough for everyone. Some men may need further interventions, including medications, BPH massage, or prostate artery embolization (PAE) treatment.

Does Prostate Massage Help BPH?

Benefits of BPH Massage

While studies on prostate massage for BPH symptoms are limited, anecdotal evidence suggests the following potential benefits:

• Temporary relief of pressure and swelling in the prostate gland and urethra.
• Temporary improvement in urine flow strength.
• Temporary improvement in the ability to stop and start urinating.

Next, we share scientific studies and findings regarding the benefits of prostate massage for BPH.

Studies and Findings on BHP Massage

The data on BPH prostate massage therapy is still emerging. However,  there are a few promising case and research studies.

• The Use of Therapeutic Massage in Benign Hyperplasia: A Case Study
  This 2023 case study followed a 55-year old man who received a 20-minute prostate massage two times a week for three weeks in a clinical setting for mild BPH symptoms. After the treatment, researchers noted the gland was reduced in volume by 30%, also resulting in a reduced symptom burden. However, since the study only looked at one patient’s experience with BPH massage, researchers were hesitant to generalize how other men might benefit from the same approach.
• Medical Massage as a Physiotherapeutic Method in Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia in Men
  This 2007 clinical study included 43 men receiving a therapeutic BPH massage. Again, after the study, each participant reported an improvement in their symptom burdens and overall quality of life. However, researchers were careful to note these reported benefits of prostate massage for BPH were subjective and could not be supported with measurable evidence.

These small studies suggest BPH massage may be beneficial. However, it is important to note that experts like Cleveland Clinic urologist Dr. Petar Bajic say, “There’s no evidence that a prostate massage provides any medical benefit.”He warns that this type of massage could cause pain, worsen hemorrhoids, or even leave you with a rectal injury.

If you’re looking for a safer, more effective, evidence-based, non-surgical, and long-term treatment for an enlarged prostate, we encourage you to consider PAE treatment at Georgia Prostate Institute. 

Safe, Effective PAE Treatment for BPH at Georgia Prostate Institute

PAE is a game-changing intervention for those seeking relief from the disruptive symptoms of BPH.

There is a large body of evidence detailing the efficacy of the procedure. Review these studies and PAE research to learn how it causes fewer adverse effects than other treatment options.

PAE can help relieve your uncomfortable urinary symptoms and help you get back to doing what you love—uninterrupted.

Request a consultation with the experts at Georgia Prostate Institute today.

Do you wake up at night with an urgent need to urinate? We understand how frustrating it is to have constant interruptions and discomfort from benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

We are here to help you find relief and reclaim your peace. With our deep expertise in managing BPH symptoms, we offer solutions that truly work, such as Cialis for BPH.

Cialis is an oral medication that helps relax the muscles and increase blood flow to the penis, prostate, and bladder, allowing urine to flow more freely.

Next, we explore Cialis treatment for BPH, its impact on urinary and sexual health, and potential side effects.

Understanding BPH

BPH is characterized by an enlarged prostate, which can range in severity. It is usually caused by natural aging and hormonal changes, but other BPH causes include cell growth, inflammation, and lifestyle or neurological factors.

Some men experience mild BPH symptoms that are easily managed with lifestyle changes, such as:

• Modifying your diet.
• Managing your fluid intake.
• Following a set urination schedule.

For others, further medical intervention is necessary for symptom relief. Talk to your healthcare provider, as they may recommend medications, like Cialis that may offer relief.

Cialis for BPH

Cialis (generic name tadafil) was originally developed to help men living with erectile dysfunction.

However, it was FDA-approved in 2011 for BPH treatment after studies¹ revealed a once-daily Cialis for BPH dosage helped relieve lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) when given over a 12-week period.

Researchers tested several Cialis daily dosage levels, including 5, 10, and 20mg. They concluded that a low dose of Cialis for BPH (a 5 mg daily) delivered maximum relief with minimal side effects.

Cialis Impact on Urinary Symptoms

Cialis works by increasing levels of cGMP (cyclic guanosine monophosphate) in the body—a key player in the bodily processes (e.g.,  blood flow to the penis and muscle relaxation in the prostate and bladder) crucial for treating BPH.

Initially developed to enhance sexual function, studies² have demonstrated its effectiveness in improving urine flow by promoting prostate relaxation.

Additionally, Cialis reduces nighttime urination frequency, offering daily relief from symptoms.

What is the best time of day to take Cialis for BPH? Taking Cialis once daily can significantly alleviate symptom burden. While you can take this medication any time of day, you should try to take it at the same time every day.

Cialis Impact on Sexual Function

Cialis enhances the release of a key chemical during sexual arousal, increasing blood flow to the penis. This helps you achieve and sustain an erection, facilitating sexual intercourse. Its effects can last for 36 hours after taking the medication, offering greater spontaneity in sexual activity for many men.

Potential Side Effects of Cialis

For most men, Cialis causes only mild side effects, including:

• Headaches
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Indigestion
• Back and muscle pain
• Stuffy nose
• Facial flushing

However, it can also cause a sudden and potentially dangerous drop in blood pressure. Therefore, men taking nitrates or other blood-pressure-lowering medications should not take Cialis.

Quality of Life and Patient Satisfaction Post-Treatment

Cialis can improve your quality of life by relieving the painful, frustrating, and uncomfortable urinary symptoms of BPH.

However, if you cannot take Cialis for BPH, or it doesn’t provide sufficient relief, you still have non-surgical options.

At Georgia Prostate Institute, our interventional radiologists offer Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE), a minimally invasive procedure that helps alleviate lower urinary tract symptoms associated with BPH. PAE avoids large incisions and general anesthesia, reducing the risks and recovery time of traditional prostate surgery.

Are you interested in PAE treatment? Request a consultation with our prostate specialists in Georgia today to explore your options.

References:

1. Claus G. Roehrborn, Kevin T. mcVary, Albert Elion-Mboussa, and Lars Viktrup. 2008, October 1). Tadalafil Administered One Daily for Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Secondary to Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: A Dose Finding Study. https://www.auajournals.org/article/S0022-5347(08)01715-1/fulltext
   
   
2. Konstantinos Hatzimouratidis. (2014, August). A review of the use of tadalafil in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia in men with and without erectile dysfunction. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4054509/

Experiencing blood in your urine can be unsettling and alarming, especially when you’re already dealing with the challenges of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

We understand how concerning this can be and are here to help. At Georgia Prostate Institute, our skilled physicians and clinical staff have the expertise you need to address this issue so you can feel better fast.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a condition characterized by an enlarged prostate gland. This condition can often lead to uncomfortable symptoms involving the lower urinary tract. But can BPH cause blood in urine? Let’s explore the connection between BPH and blood in the urine and how we can help you get the proper treatment.

Understanding BPH

BPH is a condition in which your prostate gland is enlarged, but not due to cancer.

There are several BPH causes, including:

• Hormonal changes: often related to the aging process in men.
• Lifestyle factors like diet and physical activity.
• Family history
• Other factors and environmental influences.

As the prostate grows, it can exert pressure on the urethra and bladder, putting pressure on both structures and impacting the way you urinate.

For most men, BPH symptoms are characterized by the way your urine flows—concerns include:

• Urgency: A sudden and frequent need to urinate.
• Flow: Difficulty stopping or starting urine flow.

In some cases, BPH can lead to hematuria or blood in the urine. This often occurs when BPH is left untreated for some time, leading to more serious symptoms and complications.

What Is Hematuria?

Hematuria is the medical term describing the presence of blood in your urine.

There are two types of hematuria:

• Gross hematuria
  This is when blood is visible in the urine to the naked eye, giving it a pink, red, or brown color.
• Microscopic hematuria
  This is when blood is present in the urine but only detectable through a microscope or urine test.

Typically, hematuria isn’t painful, but it can be a sign of various underlying conditions, like BPH. If you notice blood in your urine, consult a healthcare provider right away for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Hematuria as a Symptom of BPH

Can BPH cause blood in urine?

A study from the National Library of Medicine confirms that blood in the urine is a symptom of an enlarged prostate, often due to vascular changes that occur with glandular growth or even following transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). TURP is a surgical treatment option that removes some of your prostate tissue to improve urine flow.

But can BPH cause blood clots in urine?

Yes, although it‘s less common than BPH hematuria. When the prostate enlarges, the blood vessels inside can also expand. In some cases, these vessels may burst, resulting in bleeding (and blood in the urine). If this bleeding goes unchecked, it can lead to blood clots, which will then be expelled through urination.

Other Conditions and Factors Related to Hematuria BPH

Blood in your urine is often a secondary symptom of untreated BPH. While BPH-related hematuria is often not a medical emergency, it’s important to get a prompt diagnosis.

However, hematuria can also be a sign of other, more serious conditions, such as:

• Kidney injury
• Kidney disease
• Urinary tract infection
• Sickle cell anemia
• Alport syndrome
• Bladder, kidney, or prostate cancer.

Certain medications can also lead to hematuria, especially those meant to prevent clotting in your blood.

Because there are many potential causes of blood in your urine, it’s crucial to see your doctor as soon as you notice signs of hematuria. An accurate diagnosis is essential for determining the underlying cause and starting appropriate treatment.

Diagnosis and Treatment

When you visit your healthcare provider for hematuria, they may perform a physical exam and several diagnostic tests to determine what’s causing it. These may include:

• Urine test
• Ultrasound
• CT or MRI scans,
• Cystoscopy (a tiny, camera-equipped tube inserted into the bladder)

Once they determine the cause, they can start treatment, helping you find relief from this worrying symptom.

Managing BPH and Preventing Hematuria

If BPH is causing blood in your urine, effectively managing your condition is key to preventing further episodes.

There are many BPH treatment options, and the best choice for you will depend on the severity of your condition, along with your personal preference.

Many men find relief through lifestyle modifications or medication. However, if these methods aren’t enough and you want to avoid surgery, we encourage you to consider Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) at Georgia Prostate Institute.

Request a consultation today to take control of your health, find relief, and improve your quality of life.

References:

Claus G. Roehrborn, Kevin T. McVary, Albert Elion-Mboussa, and Lars Viktrup. 2008, October 1). Tadalafil Administered One Daily for Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Secondary to Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: A Dose Finding Study. https://www.auajournals.org/article/S0022-5347(08)01715-1/fulltext

Urinary incontinence (IU) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) are two common urogenital problems in men aged 45 and older.

If you have an enlarged prostate due to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), you may experience uncomfortable or embarrassing lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) like urge or urinary incontinence.

But what is it, what causes it, how can you manage it, and what are effective BPH incontinence treatment options? Below, we share everything you need to know about managing BPH and incontinence.

What Is BPH?

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. It can cause symptoms like difficulty starting urination, a weak urine stream, and the need to urinate frequently (especially at night).

The good news is it is treatable.

What Is Urinary Incontinence?

Urinary incontinence is a loss of bladder control, resulting in accidental and unintentional urine leakage.

It is a common and treatable symptom of BPH.

What Causes BPH and Urinary Incontinence?

When your urinary tract functions optimally, your brain tell you to use the restroom when your bladder is partially filled. This advance warning ensures plenty of time to make it to the restroom. During urination, your urinary sphincter valve opens, and your bladder wall muscles contract, allowing your body to empty the bladder.

However, when you have BPH symptoms like incontinence, the system may break down for a variety of reasons.

BPH incontinence can cause issues such as:

• Overflow incontinence—Unexpected urine leakage from an overly full bladder.
• Urge incontinence—Sudden and unexpected urge to urinate, often resulting in leakage.
• Overactivity incontinence—Increase in urination urgency and frequency.
• Post-void dribbling—Prolonged urine leakage after the main urine flow has stopped.

Enlarged Prostate and Incontinence: Managing the Urges

Before seeking medical intervention for BPH incontinence, many men prefer to start with lifestyle interventions. These adjustments can help reduce urge incontinence and the risk of accidents before reaching the bathroom. Here are some suggestions to help manage incontinence due to BPH:

• Avoid or limit irritating food and drinks (e.g., caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods, acidic foods)—Reduce bladder irritation and decrease the risk of sudden bladder spasms.
• Stay hydrated and active—Increase your water intake and engage in regular physical activity to support optimal bladder function. Staying well-hydrated helps dilute urine, reducing the concentration of substances that can irritate the bladder lining. It can also lower your risk for bladder infections and kidney stones. Regular exercise can help strengthen pelvic floor muscles and improve bladder function.
• Schedule regular bathroom visits—Establish a routine for regular bathroom breaks to prevent your bladder from becoming too full.
• Limit liquids before outings—Avoid unexpected urge incontinence while on the go.
• Ask your doctor about bladder muscle exercises—Certain exercises may help strengthen bladder muscles, helping you retain urine and manage incontinence more effectively.  
• Ask your doctor about medications—Certain medications can help reduce urge incontinence. However it’s important to note they may cause unintended side effects and will not address the underlying cause of BPH or incontinence.

While these lifestyle measures can successfully reduce the daily impact of an overactive bladder, lasting relief for BPH incontinence can only be found by treating the enlarged prostate itself. Many men are discovering the benefits of PAE (Prostatic Artery Embolization) treatment for BPH.

What Is PAE?

PAE (prostate artery embolization) is a minimally invasive, non-surgical, interventional radiology procedure that provides effective enlarged prostate and incontinence treatment. PAE works by blocking the blood supply to specific areas of the prostate, causing those areas to shrink and relieve pressure on the urethra and bladder.

Treating BPH Incontinence With PAE

During the PAE procedure, our prostate specialists introduce embolic agents into the arteries that deliver blood supply to your enlarged prostate gland. This is achieved by inserting a small, narrow catheter into your body through a small incision is made near the groin. Guided by X-ray imaging, we can direct the catheter to target those arteries.

Once positioned properly, we can inject the catheter with an agent containing microscopic beads. These beads effectively block blood flow to the prostate, starving the gland of its nutrition and causing significant shrinking. As your prostate gland reduces in size, you will experience significant symptom relief. BPH incontinence should no longer be a major concern.

Our interventional radiologists perform PAE as an outpatient procedure, so you don’t have to worry about general anesthesia or overnight hospital stays. Plus, PAE is completed in about two hours, meaning most patients will go home on the same day as the procedure.

Following treatment, your recovery period should pass quickly. Most men who undergo PAE for BPH incontinence can resume regular activities within a week of their procedure.

Safe, Effective Enlarged Prostate and Incontinence Treatment at Georgia Prostate Institute

Tired of being tied to the bathroom? Ready to find relief for incontinence and BPH?

We’re here to help. Request a consultation at the Georgia Prostate Institute today and begin your journey to urinary relief.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or an enlarged prostate, is a common condition affecting millions of men worldwide, particularly those over 60. Living with BPH can significantly impact daily life, especially as the condition worsens.

In this article, we’ll help you understand what BPH is, the connection between BPH and kidney health, its associated risks and complications, and how to protect yourself from an enlarged prostate and kidney issues.

What Is BPH?

BPH is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland—a small, walnut-shaped male reproductive organ located between the bladder and penis.

Because your urethra (the tube that carries urine from your bladder to your penis) passes through the middle of your prostate, prostate enlargement may cause one or more BPH symptoms, such as:

• Difficulty starting or controlling urine flow.
• Weakened urine flow.
• Frequent urination.

An enlarged prostate may also increase your risk for more serious kidney issues.

Enlarged Prostate and Kidney Issues: What Are the Risks?

Men with BPH who have trouble emptying their bladder or extended periods of urinary obstruction have a higher risk of the following urinary tract, bladder, and kidney issues:

• Difficulty urinating.
• Reduced urinary flow.
• Difficulties completely emptying your bladder with urination.
• Losing the ability to pass any urine.
• Frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs).
• Urinary tract stones.

Can an Enlarged Prostate Cause Kidney Problems?

As urinary and bladder symptoms become severe, the following kidney problems can occur:

• Kidney damage or infections.
• Hydronephrosis (kidney swelling).
• Kidney stones.
• Chronic kidney disease.
• Renal failure (in severe cases, if left untreated).

Seek BPH treatment at the first sign of urinary difficulties to stay safe and protect your long-term  kidney health. Next, we explore factors that can increase your risk for kidney issues.

What Increases My Risk for Enlarged Prostate and Kidney Issues?

If you have one or more of the following health conditions, you have a higher risk of developing kidney issues:

• Hypertension (high blood pressure).
• Diabetes.
• Obesity.
• Metabolic syndrome.
• Cardiovascular disease.
• Sedentary lifestyle.
• Family history of enlarged prostate and kidney disease.

Ask your doctor about ways to lower your risk for BPH and kidney disease. If you ignore the warning signs of BPH puts you at risk for kidney failure.

What Is Kidney Failure?

Kidney failure, or renal failure, is a critical condition that occurs when the kidneys lose their ability to effectively remove waste products from the blood. This leads to a dangerous buildup of toxins in the body, disrupting normal bodily functions and causing illness. While acute kidney failure can often be reversed with proper treatment, chronic kidney failure may require regular dialysis or a kidney transplant to sustain life.

Signs of Kidney Failure

Symptoms of an enlarged prostate and kidney failure may begin slowly but will progress in severity. Warning signs of serious kidney damage include:

• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Swollen feet, legs, or ankles
• High blood pressure
• Reduced urine output
• Blood in the urine
• Back and flank pain
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Mental confusion
• Seizures
• Coma or even death

Recognizing these warning signs and seeking prompt medical attention can help you prevent further complications and manage the condition effectively.

How Can I Protect My Kidney Health?

Maintain a Healthy Diet

Depending on the severity of your symptoms, you may be able to treat your BPH with simple diet and lifestyle adjustments. For example, you can help lower your symptom burden by following a diet that’s rich in fiber, fruits, and vegetables and avoiding dietary triggers such as:

• Caffeine
• Alcohol
• Spicy foods
• Sodium-rich foods
• Sugar-rich foods
• Fried or fatty foods

Certain supplements for prostate health may also help. Talk to your doctor to find out if prostate supplements are right for you.

Maintain a Regular Bathroom and Exercise Schedule
In some cases, you can reduce the health impact of an enlarged prostate by scheduling regular bathroom breaks and using the restroom as soon as you experience an urge to urinate. Regular exercise and stress management can also help manage BPH symptoms.

However, men whose symptoms are not well controlled through diet and lifestyle changes will need to seek medical treatment to avoid developing serious kidney issues.

Expert Treatment for Enlarged Prostate and Kidney Issues at Georgia Prostate Institute

Find out how to protect your kidneys and address BPH without surgery at Georgia Prostate Institute.

We can help you determine whether prostate artery embolization (PAE) is right for you. This research-backed treatment provides relief to symptomatic patients whose health or preference prevents them from undergoing invasive surgical procedures.

PAE can also help men improve sexual function while reducing their risk for kidney disease.

Wondering if you’re a candidate for PAE in Georgia? Request a consultation today. During your initial visit, we’ll review your treatment options and help protect your long-term kidney health.