An enlarged prostate, or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), affects nearly 40% of men aged 40 and older in Singapore, with prevalence increasing significantly with age. This common condition can disrupt daily life and lead to severe complications if left untreated. Understanding the available options for enlarged prostate treatment Singapore is crucial for managing this condition effectively. Let’s dive into the details!

What Is an Enlarged Prostate?

An enlarged prostate occurs when the prostate gland grows excessively due to hormonal changes, particularly as men age. This growth can compress the urethra, causing symptoms such as:

• Difficulty starting or stopping urination
• Weak urine flow
• Frequent urges to urinate, especially at night
• Incomplete bladder emptying

In Singapore, BPH is more common among Indian and Malay men compared to Chinese men, highlighting the importance of culturally tailored care.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Common Symptoms

While urinary difficulties are the hallmark of BPH, other symptoms may include:

• Pain during urination
• Blood in urine (in severe cases)
• Sexual dysfunction related to urinary issues

Diagnostic Methods

Doctors in Singapore use advanced techniques such as transabdominal ultrasonography to assess prostate size and intravesical prostatic protrusion. These methods allow for precise staging and individualized treatment plans1.

Treatment Options for Enlarged Prostate in Singapore

Lifestyle Adjustments

For mild cases, simple changes like fluid management, regular exercise, and dietary modifications can alleviate symptoms. Approximately 59% of patients benefit from these non-invasive measures.

Medications

Medications are often the first-line treatment for enlarged prostate treatment Singapore:

• Alpha blockers: Relax muscles in the prostate and bladder neck to improve urine flow.
• 5-alpha reductase inhibitors: Reduce prostate size by blocking hormonal changes that cause growth. These are particularly effective for larger prostates (>30g)3.

However, medications may have side effects such as dizziness or sexual dysfunction. Regular follow-ups are essential to monitor progress.

Minimally Invasive Procedures

Singapore offers cutting-edge minimally invasive treatments that provide effective relief without major surgery:

• Transurethral microwave therapy (TUMT)
• Laser therapy: Targets excess tissue with minimal recovery time.

These procedures are ideal for patients seeking alternatives to surgery while avoiding significant risks.

Surgical Interventions

For severe cases or when medications fail, surgery becomes necessary. The gold standard is transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), which removes excess tissue obstructing the urethra. Recent advancements like bipolar TURP ensure safer outcomes by using saline instead of glycine.

Choosing the Right Specialist in Singapore

Selecting a healthcare provider is critical for successful treatment. Look for specialists with:

• Accreditation from Singapore’s Ministry of Health
• Extensive experience managing BPH
• Positive patient reviews

A multidisciplinary approach involving urologists and vascular specialists often provides comprehensive care tailored to your needs.

Risks and Recovery

Side Effects

While treatments are generally safe, potential side effects include:

• Medications: Dizziness, headaches, sexual side effects
• Surgery: Bleeding or infection

Recovery Timeline

Recovery varies by treatment type:

• Medications: May take weeks to show results.
• Minimally invasive procedures: Recovery within days.
• Surgery: Full recovery may take several weeks.

Why Early Treatment Matters

Ignoring symptoms can lead to complications like urinary retention or bladder damage. Early intervention ensures better outcomes and prevents long-term issues.

For trusted care options in Singapore, visit SG Vascular Centre to explore tailored solutions for enlarged prostate treatment Singapore.

Managing BPH requires a proactive approach. Whether through lifestyle changes, medications, or advanced procedures, effective options are readily available in Singapore. Consult a specialist today to regain control over your health and quality of life!