Research>Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

Things to Know About Benign Enlargement of the Prostate (BEP)

The prostate is a walnut-sized gland in males, located below the urinary bladder, and it encircles the upper part of the urethra. This part of the urethra is called the prostatic urethra. Urine from the urinary bladder passes out through this urethra.

Hence it is clear that whenever the prostate becomes enlarged, it is likely to put pressure on this part of the urethra, i.e., the prostatic urethra, causing obstruction when the patient passes urine. In very early cases, there may not be any symptom or there may be negligible/minimal symptoms, since the force of the contraction of the urinary bladder may be able to overcome the small initial obstruction cause.d by the enlargement of the prostate gland.

As the obstruction increases, urine will stay in the urinary bladder for a longer period, and if obstruction is severe, urine may collect, as a result of back pressure, in the ureters, and finally in both the kidneys. One can imagine that such stagnation of urine in the whole urinary tract will cause an enormous growth of bacteria, leading to inflammation of the entire urinary tract, from the urethra to the kidneys. There will then be inflammation of the urethra (urethritis), the urinary bladder (cystitis), the kidneys (pyelonephritis) and even the prostate may be affected by the infection called prostatitis.

If early steps are not taken, kidney failure may occur as a result of the chronic infection of the kidneys, i.e. chronic pyelonephritis.

Regarding cancer of the prostate, it has already been described in the chapter on cancer. Here we are dealing with the 'benign' enlargement of the prostate, i.e. the condition is non-cancerous in nature. Such an enlargement of the prostate occurs in old people, usually after the age of 50. It has been rightly said that as the hair turn grey, there is, likewise, an enlargement of the prostate gland.

What are the early symptoms and signs of the BEP?

Since an enlarged prostate causes obstruction in the flow of urine in the urethra, the patient experiences varied difficulties while passing urine. There is a narrowing or decrease in the calibre of the urethra, and, therefore, (i) the patient does not pass urine with normal force, and the stream becomes thin, (ii) he experiences difficulty both while starting and stopping urination, (iii) he always feels that he has not passed the whole urine, (iv) urine falls in drops/trickles after he has passed urine, (v) the patient passes urine frequently, especially during the night, (vi) he takes more time in passing urine, (vii) he always feels like passing urine, and it becomes unavoidable most of the time.

The above early- symptoms and signs must be known by old people, so that they can report it to their physicians/ surgeons for early diagnosis and treatment, and save themselves from the grave complications of UTI.

As the prostate enlarges more, and the calibre of the urethra decreases further, the patient experiences more and more inconvenience while passing urine.

One factor is of great importance in such a diagnosis. If the patient is unable to pass urine completely, there is a strong possibility of 'residual urine' in the urinary bladder. This increases as the disease progresses. Residual urine is a valuable guide and indicates the severity of blockage in the urethra. The amount of residual urine is measured with the help of ultrasonography, and the line of action of the treatment is decided. Residual urine, more than 40-50 ml in the urinary bladder, is considered significant, and at this stage, treatment should not be delayed further.

Inside The Most Common Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Signs And Enlarged Prostate Symptoms

Benign prostatic hyperplasia, otherwise known as an enlarged prostate, is a condition most common in man over the age of forty.

Enlarged prostate is the most common health problem in men over sixty. Approximately ninety percent of men in their seventies and eighties have an enlarged prostate. Having a family history of the condition slightly elevates a man's risk of developing an enlarged prostate himself.

The prostate gland is about the size of a walnut. The prostate gland grows from the size of a pea until maturity. The prostate undergoes another growth spurt in your mid to late forties. This period of growth is more rapid in the central interior part of the gland. This rapid growth of the prostate gland can result in one of two common problems:

Compress the urethra, while partially or completely blocking the flow of urine. Muscles around the urethra to contract, making it difficult for the urethra to relax and let urine flow.

As the prostate becomes larger, it will begin to squeeze the urethra-it then in turn narrows. The bladder must then push urine through the newly slimmed down urethra more forcefully, which makes urination difficult with an enlarged prostate. Leaving this enlarged prostate symptom untreated can lead to acute urinary retention, a complete shutdown of urination. It is a serious condition.

Other serious conditions that can develop as a result of an untreated enlarged prostate gland are kidney damage, bladder damage, and bladder stones.

Symptoms of Enlarged Prostate

Urinary problems are the most common enlarged prostate symptom. Other signs associated with this condition include, he inability to empty the bladder, urine leakage, frequent trips to the restroom (particularly around bedtime), difficulty starting urination.

Serious enlarged prostate conditions are characterized by symptoms like losing the ability to urinate,nausea, fever, and chills, or if lower back pain becomes accompanied by blood in the urine.

Treating an Enlarged Prostate Gland

Treatment options for benign prostatic hyperplasia vary in accordance with individual cases. Some patients may be treated with monitoring, other, more serious cases, may require medication or surgery. There are two medications used for enlarged prostate treatment- Alpha-blockers and Finasteride. Alpha-blockers may relieve the symptoms of enlarged prostate by relaxing the gland's muscles. Finasteride can prompt shrinkage of the prostate gland.

The trans urethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is the most common surgical procedure for treating enlarged prostate symptoms. The procedure consist of scraping away at the core of the prostate while implementing the help of a telescope. Tissue is removed from the prostate gland during the procedure. The trans urethral incision of the prostate (TUIP) is a relatively new surgical option. This surgery makes a few small cuts in the prostate to relieve it's pressure on the urethra.

Natural Vs Prescription Treatment For Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (Enlarged Prostate)

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (enlarged prostate) is a condition that is non-cancerous but is very commonly seen amongst men who are 60 and over. In fact it is believed that around 50% of men in their 60's will have BPH, and this percentage increases as men age until there is a 90% likelihood of having BPH at age 85. Men are increasingly turning away from risky prescription medication in favor of finding a natural treatment for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia that will treat the cause, and not just mask the symptoms of this all too common condition.

Common Symptoms of Enlarged Prostate

• Weak urine flow
• Frequent urge to urinate
• Break in the urine stream

The above are initial signs that your prostate may be enlarging. Once the process has begun, more severe and serious symptoms can follow.

Symptoms of Severe BPH

• Weak bladder
• Bladder infection
• Kidney infection
• Urine blockage
• Kidney failure

Treatment Options for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

Aggressive and expensive prescription medication is often given to patients with BPH. However, besides causing harmful side effects, these drugs simply cover up the symptoms of an enlarged prostate rather than cure it.

A more appealing option for many men who are tired of not seeing results with prescription medication, are natural remedies for prostate enlargement.

Ancient herbal remedies have been helping people with ailments for millennia and have proven highly effective in not only assisting with BPH symptoms, but also in reversing the condition.

Benefits of Natural BPH Treatment vs Prescription Medication

- Natural remedies for prostate enlargement will not result in side effects like those experienced with prescribed drugs.

- Prescription medication can rarely be used safely over the long term (due to harmful side effects) and as such your BPH symptoms will re-appear after you stop taking them.

- Natural remedies are cheaper, safer and treat the cause rather than mask the symptoms.

Unconventional Treatment for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

BPH, or benign prostatic hyperplasia is a common condition in men above fifty years old. In this condition, the prostate gland become swollen and sensitive for any number of non malignant reasons.

The prostate gland sits on the euretha in the lower abdomen and its primary function is the production of fluid to transport the sperm out of the body and to produce certain kinds of hormones. When the prostate becomes enlarged it causes an obstruction to the flow of urine from the bladder through the euretha, causing the passing of urine to be slow.

Persons with this condition often feel that they cannot completely empty their bladder which causes a feeling of continued discomfort. Other sensations include a burning feeling when passing uring, discomfort in the area between the bladder and the anus and difficulty getting and maintaining an erection.

There are many treatments for BPH but one of the most effective is the massaging of the prostate gland which is achieved by inserting one finger into the anus and gently massaging the swollen gland. Not all patients feel comfortable with this treatment and for those that seek it, it can be difficult to get to a therapist frequently enough to make the treatment fully beneficial.

Sometimes, treatments for some disorders come from unconventional and indeed unexpected sources. I suffered from BPH in the past and found that a particular kind of sporting activity greatly improved the intensity of my BPH. That activity was horse riding. I had ridden a lot in my youth but had stopped riding due to the amount of time involved in riding which meant taking time away from the family, work and other sporting activities. I still loved horses but getting out into the country to ride became inconvenient.

One day a friend asked me if I could ride his horse because he had been in an accident and wouldn't be able to ride for a while. I jumped at the chance to get back in the saddle and re-kindle my old passion. As time went on, after a couple of weeks I began to notice that my BPH had greatly improved. I consulted my doctor on the issue who, after some thought, agreed that the girating movement of the horses back would perform a type of massage that could be beneficial to the prostate.

Since then, I have made a habit of riding at least a couple of times a week and I do not take any more medication for BPH. I would strongly recommend to anybody with BPH who is still active and healthy enough to ride a horse to find a riding stable locally and book some riding lessons and try this unique therapy. It may work for you as well as it did for me. School horses are usually very safe and you may have found a therapy that gives you pleasure from riding and a physical activity that you may well be in need of. You'll be hitting three birds with just one stone. In any case it's a completely safe therapy that can have only benefits for you.

Prostate Health Part 10 - Symptoms and Signs of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

We know that starting at age 40, the levels of the by-product prolactin of testosterone of men increases, stimulating the production of the enzyme 5-alpha reductase that causes the conversion of testosterone to gihydro-testosterones DHT triggering prostate enlargement and other problems. Therefore in order to prevent the symptoms of enlarged prostate is to naturally impend the conversion of testosterone to DHT. Unfortunately, aging is not the only cause of enlarged prostate. In this article, we will discuss the chronic signs and symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

1. Nocturia.
Nocturia is defined as being awakened at night one or more times in order to pass urine. It becomes more common as the person becomes older. This common pattern seen among people with this condition is an increased number of times of waking up every night to urinate for the rest of their life.

Nocturnal Polyuria is an important cause of nocturia in which there is an overproduction of urine at night. It is defined to have nighttime urine volume that is greater than 20-30% of the total 24 hour urine volume. Nocturia occurs more commonly among older people. It also occurs in women and men differently. Women generally experience nocturia as a result from childbirth, menopause, and pelvic organ prolapse. Nocturia in men can be directly attributed to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), also known as enlarged prostate.

2. Dysuria.
Dysuria is a complication associated with genitourinary infections usually resulting in painful urination because the infection has made its way into the urinary tract, resulting in a urinary tract infection. Dysuria in men is usually indicative of a complication of the prostate, commonly referred to as prostatic hyperplasia caused by hormonal imbalances associated with estrogen production.

3. Asymptomatic
As we know the prostate gland becomes enlarged as a man ages. Asymptomatic inflammatory prostatitis may be diagnosed when infection-fighting cells are present causing common symptoms of prostatitis such as difficulty with urination, fever, and lower back and pelvic pain.

4. Epididymitis
Epididymitis is an inflammation of the epididymis that connects the testicle with the vas deferens. Epididymitis is usually caused by infection of the urethra or the bladder. Epididymitis may begin with a low grade fever and chills with a heavy sensation in the testicle which becomes increasingly sensitive to pressure or traction.

A Cure for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

Cardura medication is used as a treatment for high blood pressure and benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH, and is highly effective. It is part of the alpha-blocker family of medications. What it does is to help the muscles in the blood vessels to relax which then lowers blood pressure. This action is beneficial in BPH since muscles surrounding the urethra have release in tension and thus the urinary symptoms are greatly improved.

Cardura is not to be used if:

The patient has an allergic reaction to any of the substances in Cardura or to other drugs similar. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to consult with a doctor before commencing treatment with this drug.

Prior to the Use of Cardura

The doctor who prescribes Cardura as part of the treatment to control blood pressure should ideally be the one who gave the diagnosis as they will know the case of the patient that much better and can tailor their instructions to their particular circumstances. If the patient is pregnant or breast feeding it's imperative that the doctor is informed as the treatment could have some dangerous consequences. Furthermore, those patients that suffer from kidney, liver or prostrate problems, must avoid this medication.

It goes without saying that those patients with already low blood pressure should avoid the drug as it can occasions drastically reduce blood pressure thus causing adverse effects like dizziness. If someone has allergies to foods, medications or any other substances then the doctor must be informed so that they can take this into account when giving instructions on the treatment to follow. If the patient is taking any dietary supplements they also should be reported to the doctor as they too can interact with Cardura medication.

Medicine interactions:

If you are taking cimetidine or verapamil then they could interact with Cardura with adverse reactions of dizziness and lightheadedness. Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors like Vardenafil should also be avoided when taking Cardura as the interaction between these two medications could lead to grave problem due to low blood pressure. There are other medications that could potentially interact with serious consequences so it is a good idea to consult with your doctor and tell them about all the medications you are currently taking.

Taking Cardura

Unlike other medications for high blood pressure, it does not matter whether you take the drug with food or not. After the first dose is taken, it's possible that the patient may have a drop in the blood pressure. If you notice some dizziness then inform your doctor as this could be an indication of low blood pressure. If a dose is missed then take the medication as soon as possible but it is not recommended to take two doses at once as there could be some serious health consequences.

As you've probably read, the drug Cardura continues to be an effective treatment for the high blood pressure condition. It works causing relaxation and expansion of the arteries and veins. As you will know, when taking any prescription drug it is advisable to use caution, but you should see that the drug is effective as a cure for benign prostatic hyperplasia and at greatly reducing your blood pressure.

A New Treatment Option For Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Or Swollen Prostate

Millions of men around the world suffer from an enlarged prostate condition called benign prostatic hyperplasia. The prostate gland is situated under the bladder and when it gets enlarged it puts pressure on the bladder. This creates a sensation of wanting to urinate frequently. Over 50% of men over the age of 50 suffer from an enlarged prostate.

Though most of the cases are non-cancerous (benign) and respond to conventional treatments, there are numerous side effects with the current set of conventional treatments on the market today.

In a recent study, a Botox injection has proved to be successful at alleviating this condition. Botox which is widely used for cosmetic purposes to erase wrinkles and other facial lines is now finding other uses. One such use is for the treatment of excessive sweating. Now Botox has proved to be successful in treating enlarged prostate, with very few or no side effects. When Botox is injected directly into the prostate, it relaxes the muscles within the prostate thereby allowing the person to completely empty the bladder. Other studies have shown that the actual size of the prostate gets smaller and even PSA levels come down. PSA levels are measured to evaluate the risk of prostate cancer among men over 40.

Though all of these results look promising, Botox is yet to be approved for treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia in the US. It is being used in other countries for this treatment successfully. Men suffering from the effects of having to wake up several times in the night to go to the bathroom are eagerly awaiting alternative treatment options such as Botox with fewer side effects.

Natural Prostate Health - Is Beta-Sitosterol The Answer?

In this article about natural prostate health, you will discover:

• What is beta-sitosterol?
• Why is beta-sitosterol natural alternative for prostate health?
• How much beta-sitosterol do you need to take as a natural prostate health treatment?

What Is Beta-Sitosterol?

Beta-sitosterol (also known as phytosterol) is a sterol found in many plants, especially the South African star grass which is extremely rich in beta-sitosterol and rice bran, wheat germ, corn oils, and soybeans.

Apart from being a good natural prostate health treatment, beta-sitosterol also has the following health properties:

• Anti-cancer
• Boost Immunity
• Lowers Cholesterol
• Balances Blood Sugar Levels
• Anti-viral
• Anti-bacterial
• Anti-fungal
• Anti-inflammatory

Why Is Beta-Sitosterol Natural Alternative For Prostate Health?

Beta-sitosterol is a good natural alternative for prostate health because double-blind trials have shown that it can help to reduce the symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Trials showed that beta-sitosterol were just as good as drug at reducing the symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and improving urinary flow.

How Much Beta-Sitosterol Do You Need To Take As A Natural Prostate Health Treatment?

In the trial previously mentioned, a dose of 20 mg of beta-sitosterol was taken three times daily for six months by men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Their symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) were significantly improved and no major side effects were reported.

So, to sum up…

Beta-sitosterol is a compound in most edible plants.

Trials have shown that beta-sitosterol can reduce the symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) significantly.

Beta-sitosterol is safe to take and is considered as a good natural health prostate health treatment.

Prostate

The prostate is a gland in the male reproductive system. It is located just below the bladder and wraps around the urethra. The prostate gland measures 3-4 cm long and 3-5 cm in width. On average, the prostate gland weighs 20 grams. The prostate consists of approximately 30% muscular tissue while the remaining is glandular tissue.

Seminal vesicles are attached to the prostate and produce material that mixes with prostatic fluid to form semen. The tubes from the testicles carry sperm to the prostate, which mixes with the seminal fluid and is ejaculated during orgasm.

The prostate may increase in size as age progresses. This condition is called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). More than 40% of men have an enlarged prostate by the age of 70. Enlargement of the prostate causes it to press against the urethra and weaken the flow of urine. An increase in size may indicate the condition of benign prostatic hyperplasia or a urologic condition. It need not necessarily indicate the growth of cancer cells. Benign prostatic hyperplasia does not increase the risk of prostate cancer but indicates the possibility of occurrence.

Three common diseases of the prostate are benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostates and prostate cancer. Each condition affects the prostate differently.

The male sex hormone, testosterone, plays an important part in the normal growth and function of the prostate gland. The testicles produce testosterone and is a concern for those diagnosed with hormone-dependent prostate cancer. As long as testosterone is produced, prostate cancer is very likely to grow and spread throughout the body.

The prostate has various concentric zones, known as the anterior fibromuscular stroma, peripheral zone, central zone and transition zone. A doctor is able to examine the peripheral zone by inserting a finger in the rectum. Benign prostatic hyperplasia develops in the transition zone and grows in size. The anterior fibromuscular stroma is the anchoring point of the urethra

sphincter. It does not contain any glands and hence cancer or enlargement does not usually develop there. It is essential to contact a urologist in case one experiences the symptoms to ensure early preventive care.

Prostate provides detailed information on Prostate, Prostate Cancer, Prostate Health, Prostate Cancer Treatment and more. Prostate is affiliated with Prostate Cancer Treatments.

Here's Why Your Enlarged Prostate or Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Condition Is Not Cancerous

Out of control? Examines the differences between hyperplasia, a proliferation of cells beyond what is usually seen, and neoplasia, the process underlying cancer.

For many men, a diagnosis of enlarged prostate or poor prostate health can be distressing, especially once terms like "benign prostatic hyperplasia" start being tossed around. Medical terms often sound very serious and sometimes downright ominous. Rest assured that hyperplasia is not cancer and can be easily treated.

But what is hyperplasia? Also known as hypergenesis, hyperplasia is an overall term that refers to the extraordinary proliferation of cells within an organ or tissue. This can result in benign tumors or the enlargement of an organ. Other times, the effects of hyperplasia can only be seen under a microscope.

The cause of hyperplasia can be any number of things, such as chronic inflammatory response, compensation for damage or disease or hormonal dysfunction. Animal studies have shown that hyperplasia can occur in response to stretching a muscle, although this effect has yet to be confirmed in humans. The cells of a hyperplastic growth are still subject to the body's normal regular control mechanisms.

In contrast, neoplasia is the process whereby genetically abnormal cells proliferate in a manner that is unresponsive to normal stimuli. These cells create a growth called a neoplasm and neoplasms often form tumors. Neoplasms are not necessarily cancerous - moles are one of the most common forms of neoplasms and are almost always benign.

Often, more than one type of cell is contained within a neoplastic tumor. The initiation and continued growth of these cells usually depends on a single population of neoplastic cells. Neoplastic cells are clonal, which means that they all decend from a single cell. Many consider clonality to be necessary in defining a cellular proliferation as neoplastic, although this is not sufficient evidence in and of itself.

A diagnosis of benign prostatic hyperplasia is certainly one to be taken seriously and treated appropriately. And while hyperplasia can occur abnormally, it is always a comfort to know that hyperplasia will never become cancerous.

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) - Treatment and Medication

If you are suffering from high blood pressure and Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, also known as BPH, you should consider taking Cardura medication. It is a very effective drug for such treatments. It is an alpha-blocker. This helps to relax the muscles in the blood vessels. In return, it will lead to a decrease in blood pressure.

For benign prostatic hyperplasia patients, such effect from taking Cardura is desired. This is because the drug frees the tension from the muscles that surround the urethra. Therefore, there will be good improvement in urinary symptoms.

Do Not Use Cardura If:

The patient will generate an allergic reaction to any chemical that is used to make Cardura or drugs similar to Cardura. Hence, it is necessary that you consult a doctor or pharmacist before you start your Cardura treatment.

Before Using Cardura

The doctor or pharmacist who prescribes the medicine must know if the women are pregnant, planning to be pregnant or if they are breast-feeding currently.

Besides that, patients who are suffering from prostate cancer or liver and kidney problems should also refrain from taking Cardura. If patients are taking any health supplements, this must be reported to the doctor as these may interact with Cardura too and may have adverse effects.

Cardura Side Effects

Cardura may interact with Cimetidine or Verapamil. As a result, patient tends to feel dizzy or have a fainting feeling. Vardenafil must also be avoided when having Cardura treatment.

Dosage

Cardura can be taken either with food or without food. It does not matter. When the first dose is consumed, the patient may experience sudden drop of blood pressure. If the patient happens to miss his Cardura medication accidentally, it must be taken as soon as possible. But it must not be taken with 2 dosage at one time.

Supplements That Support Prostate Health

The American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates that there will be 25% cases of prostate cancer in the United States in 2008. This is good reason for American men to become more aware of common prostrate disorders, and how they can keep good prostrate health to possibly avoid these disorders.

Prostate Glands and its Functions

The prostate gland is a part of the male reproductive system. It is situated just under the bladder and encloses the urethra. The prostate gland consists of many small glands enclosed in fibrous tissue. This tissue is called the prostatic capsule. The main function of the prostate glands is to produce part of, store and help in the secretion of semen, the solution that carries sperm.

Overview of Prostate Disorders:

• Prostatis. Inflammation or irritation of the prostrate glands. This can be caused by bacteria, kidney stones, cancer or by other non-bacterial causes.
• Benign prostatic hyperplasia. The prostate glands enlarge to such an extent that urination becomes difficult. Prostate cells in the middle of the prostate gland begin to multiply rapidly when men reach their mid-40s. This results in the enlargement of the prostate. This enlargement begins to pressure on the urethra. This condition is called Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). It is estimated that 50% of the men over 60 and 90% of men in their 70s and 80s have BPH.
• Prostate cancer. This is one of the most common cancers affecting older men (usually above 50) and a significant cause to their death. Prostate cancer has been the second leading cause of cancer death among the American men. The American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates that 10% of the total cancer deaths in the United States will be due to prostate cancer in 2008. This figure was 9% up till 2007.

Treatment differs from individual to individual. It can include medicine, surgery or non-surgical methods.

Causes of Prostate Disorders:

• Age. Men above 50 are usually diagnosed with prostate disorders. More than 80% of the diagnosed cases are more than 65.
• Race/Nationality. Prostate disorders occur more in African-American men than in men of other races. It is also more common in men in North America, northwestern Europe, Australia, and on Caribbean islands.
• Diet. The diet consumed in America can be a contributing factor for developing prostate disorders. Men who eat red meat, and pay no attention to vegetables and fruit in their diet appear to be more at risk.
• Hereditary Factors Although this is not a major cause, the risk of getting prostate cancer is higher if you have a father or brother who has had it.
• DNA mutations. There are certain genes that promote cell growth and division. These are called oncogenes. There are other genes that slow down cell division or cause cells to die at the right time. These are called tumor suppressor genes. Changes in the DNA (mutations) can turn on oncogenes or turn off tumor suppressor genes, leading to cancer At this stage of research, results are not yet clear as to what causes these disorders. Doctors, however, recommend a low-fat diet, high in fiber with plenty of fruits and vegetables. You may be able to reduce your risk of prostate cancer by changing the way you eat. Tomatoes, pink grapefruit and watermelon which contain antioxidants called lycopenes have shown potential in lowering the risk of prostate cancer. Lycopenes antioxidants help prevent damage to DNA. Researchers at the Christie Hospital in Manchester concluded that the intake of omega-3 fats (found in fatty fish) may inhibit the prostate cancer cells.

Role of Beta-Sitosterol

Beta-sitosterol, one of several phytosterols, helps support prostate health. It has been used in easing symptoms of BPH with good results. Natural sources are found in pecans, pumpkin seed, cashew fruit, rice bran, wheat germ, corn oils, soybeans, sea-buckthorn and wolfberries.. Supplements like Super Beta Prostate, Beta Prostate, Saw Palmetto will help you get the ensured dosage your body needs for good prostate health. Please consult your doctor for its advantage for you and recommended dosage.

Alpha-Blockers As Anti-Hypertensive

Alpha-blockers, like beta-blockers, are not meant to be used as an initial treatment to hypertension. This is because alpha-blockers must be used in consonance with other anti-hypertensive agents. Alpha-blockers are used for medication of systolic and diastolic hypertension as well as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Despite its ability to combat adverse effects of hypertension as first-line treatment, experts recommend alpha-blockers to be good in lipid improvement and glucose level management in diabetic patients.

Alpha-blockers work by helping to ease and relax the prostate muscles and accommodate the continuous flow of urine out of the bladder. This process however cannot be done alone and that is medication of other blood pressure lowering agents must also be applied to a hypertension patient. Alpha-blockers are taken orally once or twice a day. Not all alpha-blockers are specified for high blood pressure cases. Products like alfuzosin and tamsulosin are the exceptions.

Doctors also recommend the use of alpha-blockers to patients who have been previously treated with other anti-hypertensives. Diuretics for example induce frequent urination to patients. Alpha-blockers work very well with male patients as suggested by the study of the American Urological Association or AUA that showed remarkable improvement of urinal activity in patients in 2- 3 weeks time.

To harness more of the treating potential of alpha-blockers drug interaction must be considered. The National Institutes of Health of NIH in the United States report that a dual in take of doxazosin (an alpha-blocker) and finasteride (another agent) can lower the risk of worsening its side effects.

The side effects of alpha-blockers are dependent on dosage and background of a patient. Erectile dysfunction however is not one of them.

* Weakness

* Fainting and dizziness

* Headaches

* Nasal Congestion

Further studies have recently shown superiority of other anti-hypertensive agents to alpha-blockers. One study reported that in a test of four agents, alpha-blockers do not seem to have exuded advantage over the others. There was no significant variation of side effects also found in the four agents in terms of worsening conditions.

In a separate lab re-evaluation by a large organization called Antihypertensive and Lipid-Lowering Treatment to Prevent Heart Attack Trial (ALLHAT), alpha-blockers are to be used as the initial medication otherwise used as treatment for both high blood pressure and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Another review however revealed that alpha-blockers exhibit more dizziness and fainting side effects on patients than other anti-hypertensive. This can be prevented, though, by starting with low dosage.

Enlarged Prostate Treatment – Are Pumpkin Seeds The Answer?

In this article about the enlarged prostate treatment of pumpkin seeds, you will discover:

• What are pumpkin seeds?
• Why pumpkin seeds are considered an enlarged prostate treatment?
• How many pumpkin seeds do you need to take as an enlarged prostate treatment?

What Are Pumpkin Seeds?

Today pumpkins are grown throughout the world but they are native to North and South America.

Pumpkin seeds are a popular snack food but they can be used for medicinal purposes.

Pumpkin seeds contain:

• Amino Acids
• Essential Fatty Acids
• Minerals
• Mucilaginous Carbohydrates
• Phytosterols
• Vitamin E
• Zinc

Apart from helping with prostate problems, pumpkin seeds can also help with the symptoms of the following health conditions:

• Depression
• Kidney Stones
• Parasites

Why Pumpkin Seeds Are Considered An Enlarged Prostate Treatment?

Pumpkin seeds are considered an enlarged prostate treatment because research has shown that positive result in reducing symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) especially when combined with saw palmetto.

It is thought that pumpkin seeds are a good enlarged prostate treatment because of the zinc, free fatty acid, or plant sterol content.

How Many Pumpkin Seeds Do You Need To Take As An Enlarged Prostate Treatment?

If you want to eat pumpkin seeds as a snack but also want the benefits from them, then consuming up to 400 g daily would be beneficial.

Note: Pumpkin seeds can cause upset stomach but generally they are safe.

If you want to take pumpkin seed oil extract supplements, then taking 160 mg three times daily with meals could help with your BPH symptoms.

So, to sum up…

Research has shown that taking pumpkin seed oil extract supplements especially with saw palmetto can help to reduce your symptoms of BPH and is considered a safe alternative enlarged prostate treatment.