Prostate Care

As men age, one problem almost every man that lives past the age of 50 can count on is a prostate condition. The walnut-sized gland that wraps around the urethra in its resting spot below the bladder contributes to urinary continence, fertility, and more.

More than 30 million men are afflicted by some form of prostate condition, such as prostate cancer, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH/enlarged prostate), or similar conditions. After age 50, the chances of experiencing a prostate-related medical condition exponentially increases and continues to climb as you continue to age.

Prostate care is a vital part of maintaining your overall long-term health. One of the most common conditions that a man faces is an enlarged prostate.

Symptoms of an Enlarged Prostate

  • Nocturia (getting up at night to urinate)
  • Hesitancy
  • Weak urinary stream
  • Incomplete emptying
  • Post-void dribbling
  • Urgency
  • Incontinence

Complications of an Enlarged Prostate

  • Urinary retention
  • Bladder stones
  • Urinary tract infections
  • Kidney failure

Evaluation of an Enlarged Prostate

Your provider will discuss your medical history and perform a complete physical exam including a prostate exam, urinalysis, bladder scan, cystoscopy, urodynamics.

Treatments for an Enlarged Prostate

Medication

There are two classes of medications that your provider may recommend. Alpha blockers help with urinary flow, and alpha-reductase inhibitors work to shrink your prostate. Your provider will be able to determine which medication is best for you.

Prostate-Bladder

Urolift

Urolift is a minimally invasive procedure that uses small implants to lift and hold enlarged prostate tissue away from the urethra so that urine can flow freely. Learn more by visiting our Urolift page. 

Urolift

Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP)

Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) is a surgery that is used to treat urinary problems due to an enlarged prostate.

During the procedure, a resectoscope—a combined visual and surgical tool—is inserted through the tip of the penis and into the urethra. Once in position, your doctor will use the resectoscope or alternative technologies to remove or vaporize excess prostate tissue that is compressing the urethra, allowing for a regular flow. This procedure generally takes 60 to 90 minutes under anesthesia.

TURP is ideal for men with moderate to severe urinary problems that haven’t responded to medications. TURP has been considered the most effective treatment for an enlarged prostate. Most men experience a significantly stronger urine flow within a few days. 

Catheter Management

Occasionally, a patient is not a candidate for medications or surgical intervention. In this case, use of a catheter may be indicated either indwelling or by intermittent self-catheterization.

TURP

When persistent pain disrupts your quality of life, our team at Urology Care P.C. is here to provide you with high-quality personalized care to ensure your long-term health. Our expert providers will examine you and create a personalized comprehensive treatment plan.

To determine what treatment is best for you, please contact us at 520-298-7200 to schedule your appointment.