Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a very common condition, affecting more than 50% of men over 50 and nearly 90% of men over 80. Yet, too many men hesitate to talk about it, accepting a decline in their quality of life without realizing that effective and tailored solutions exist for each case.
In this article, we will demystify BPH, explain its impact on daily life, and review treatment options, from medications to the latest minimally invasive solutions.
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What is BPH?
As men age, the prostate gradually enlarges and can compress the urethra, the canal through which urine flows. This compression leads to troublesome urinary symptoms that can deeply affect daily life.
What are the symptoms?
BPH manifests through several signs:
✅ Frequent urge to urinate, especially at night (nocturia)
✅ Difficulty starting or stopping urination
✅ Sensation of incomplete bladder emptying
✅ Urinary leakage or sudden urge to urinate
✅ Recurrent urinary tract infections in some cases
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A Direct Impact on Quality of Life
These symptoms may seem minor at first, but they quickly become a real handicap in daily life:
❌ Chronic fatigue due to frequent nighttime awakenings
❌ Fear of urinary leakage = stress and social isolation
❌ Constant need for bathroom access = limited travel and reduced independence
Unfortunately, many men think these issues are inevitable, when in reality, they can be effectively treated!
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Why Consult a Urologist? Let’s Break the Taboos!
BPH is not a serious disease in itself, but it can progress and lead to complications such as:
🔴 Recurrent urinary tract infections
🔴 Kidney failure in severe cases
Too many men delay consulting a specialist out of fear of a complicated diagnosis or major surgery. However, BPH treatments have evolved significantly, now offering simple and effective solutions tailored to each case.
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What Are the Treatment Options for BPH?
There is no universal solution, but rather several options depending on the severity of symptoms and the patient’s expectations.
1️⃣ Medical Treatment: The First Line of Defense
In many cases, medications are sufficient to relieve symptoms:
💊 Alpha-blockers (e.g., tamsulosin, silodosin): Relax the prostate muscles, facilitating urine flow. Fast-acting, but possible side effects include low blood pressure and retrograde ejaculation.
💊 5-alpha reductase inhibitors (e.g., finasteride, dutasteride): Reduce prostate size over a few months. Effective long-term, but may affect libido and sexual function.
💊 Combination therapy: Some patients benefit from using both drug classes together.
💊 Phytotherapy: Herbal extracts like Serenoa repens are sometimes proposed, but their effectiveness remains controversial.
👉 These treatments are often the first step, but they are not suitable for everyone. Unfortunately, in Belgium, they are not reimbursed by INAMI, which can be a significant financial burden. If medications are ineffective or poorly tolerated, highly effective minimally invasive alternatives exist.
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2️⃣ Minimally Invasive Solutions: Treating BPH Without Surgery!
Traditional procedures like transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) remain effective but are more invasive and require hospitalization. Fortunately, new techniques allow BPH treatment without major surgery.
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🔹 Rezūm: Steam Therapy for Prostate Reduction
🚀 Principle: Uses micro-injections of steam to shrink the prostate.
✔️ Quick procedure (less than 10 minutes)
✔️ No hospitalization (performed on an outpatient basis)
✔️ Preserves sexual function
✔️ Gradual improvement over a few weeks
👉 How does it work? Steam is injected into the prostate, destroying excess cells. The body naturally eliminates these cells, relieving urethral compression and improving urine flow.
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🔹 iTind: A Temporary Implant to Expand the Urethra
🚀 Principle: A temporary device is inserted into the prostate and removed after a few days.
✔️ No incisions, no tissue removal
✔️ Can be placed under local anesthesia in an office setting
✔️ Long-lasting relief without the need for daily medication
👉 How does it work? The implant gradually widens the urinary canal before being removed, providing long-term symptom relief.
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Which Option Is Right for You?
The choice of treatment depends on several factors:
🔹 The size of your prostate
🔹 Your overall health condition
🔹 Your urologist’s experience
🔹 The severity of your symptoms
🔹 The impact on your daily life
🔹 Your personal preferences and expectations
At UroBrussels, Dr. Fadi DALATI provides a personalized approach, helping you choose the best solution for your case.
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Don’t Let BPH Ruin Your Life!
If you experience urinary symptoms, don’t ignore them. Solutions exist, and they are more accessible than ever!
📅 Schedule an appointment today with Dr. Fadi DALATI for a complete evaluation and find the right solution for you.
🔗 Learn more: www.UroBrussels.com
#Men’sHealth #BPH #Urology #Prostate #InnovativeTreatments #Brussels #Wellbeing