WHEN DO I NEED BPH TREATMENT?

Many men would much rather suffer the inconvenience of BPH than seek medical or surgical help. However, there are times when symptoms can no longer be ignored and treatment is needed. These include:

A “Backed-Up” Bladder, Impaired Kidney Function, or Overflow Incontinence. Sometimes, when the bladder is too full for an extended period and is not emptying completely, the mounting pressure can cause the urine to back up in the kidneys—which can lead to severe damage if left untreated. The first step here is simply to drain the bladder, by means of a catheter threaded into the urethra through the penis. For most men, function of the upper urinary tract (kidneys and ureters) improves right away. Some men may be given oral replacement of fluids and key minerals to flush the body of impurities and prevent dehydration once the pressure is relieved. The fate of the lower urinary tract (recovery of function in the bladder, prostate, and urethra) is less certain, and depends on how much—and for how long—strain has been placed on the bladder.

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