Onions and garlic are often used in natural medicine to fight infection and help strengthen your immune system. There’s no denying the importance of taking our health seriously and staying proactive about the health risks that impact us as we age. Getting an annual physical exam is an important step in staying healthy.
If that’s true for you, there are both minimally invasive procedures and surgical options available. Saw palmetto is one of the best-studied and most commonly used supplements to treat BPH. However, several large studies do not show that it reduces the size of the prostate or eases urinary symptoms. Both treatments may cause retrograde ejaculation, in which semen backs up into the bladder when a man ejaculates. In the case of laser treatment, as many as 90% of patients may experience this side effect.
The prostate is a small gland located below the bladder in men that can sometimes become enlarged, causing uncomfortable symptoms such as frequent urination, difficulty starting or stopping urination, and even pain. When looking for ways to shrink the prostate, there are several options available.
Lifestyle Changes
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), a few small-scale studies have suggested that saw palmetto might be effective for relieving BPH symptoms. There are also natural remedies that may work to combat enlarged prostate symptoms. However, evidence is debatable on whether these treatments actually work. The American Urological Association currently doesn’t recommend any herbal therapy for managing BPH. ROCHESTER, Minn. — More than half of men in their 60s experience symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate gland.
Prostate cells accumulate more zinc than cells in any other human tissue, and the mineral plays a role in the prostate’s normal functioning. Some basic science research suggests that zinc deficiency may increase the risk of both prostate enlargement and prostate cancer. But observational studies looking at zinc supplements do not show consistent improvements in prostate health. In fact, taking high doses of zinc (100 milligrams daily) actually might increase prostate cancer risk. An enlarged prostate is a condition that most commonly affects men over 50, but it can begin once you reach your 30s.
Increasing research has shed light on the benefits of using natural supplements for BPH. You can do things at home to help control the symptoms of an enlarged prostate. Lowering androgens can cause changes to your body, such as problems sleeping, development of breast swelling, and loss of muscle.
One of the best ways to help shrink the prostate is through lifestyle changes. This can include maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, exercising regularly, and avoiding alcohol and caffeine. Making these changes can help reduce inflammation in the prostate and improve overall prostate health.
Medications
There are several medications available that can help shrink the prostate, such as alpha-blockers and 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors. These medications work by relaxing the muscles in the prostate and reducing the production of hormones that contribute to its enlargement. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any medication for prostate issues.
Natural Remedies
In addition to lifestyle changes and medications, there are also natural remedies that can help shrink the prostate. Some of these include saw palmetto, pygeum, and pumpkin seed oil. These natural remedies have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce the size of the prostate over time.
Surgical Options
In more severe cases of prostate enlargement, surgical options may be necessary. One common procedure is transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), which involves removing part of the prostate to relieve symptoms. Other surgical options include laser therapy and prostatectomy. These procedures should only be considered after consulting with a healthcare provider.
Conclusion
When it comes to shrinking the prostate, there are several options available ranging from lifestyle changes to surgical procedures. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action based on individual needs and symptoms. By taking proactive steps to address prostate enlargement, individuals can experience relief from uncomfortable symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.
