Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), commonly known as an enlarged prostate, affects many men as they age. In Singapore, where an ageing population is prevalent, BPH is a growing concern, making it crucial for men to understand the available treatment options. This article will cover everything you need to know about BPH Treatment in Singapore, from symptoms and diagnosis to the latest treatment advancements.
What is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)?
BPH is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that typically occurs in men over the age of 50. The prostate is a walnut-sized gland below the bladder that produces seminal fluid. As men age, the prostate may gradually grow larger, compressing the urethra, which can lead to symptoms such as frequent urination, difficulty starting urination, weak urine flow, and the feeling of incomplete bladder emptying.
Common Symptoms of BPH
The symptoms of BPH can range from mild to severe and often include:
Increased frequency of urination, especially at night (nocturia)
Weak or interrupted urine flow
Difficulty starting or stopping urination
Dribbling after urination
A feeling of incomplete bladder emptying
Urinary urgency or incontinence
These symptoms can significantly impact the quality of life and, if left untreated, tend to worsen over time.
How is BPH Diagnosed in Singapore?
To diagnose BPH, doctors typically perform a combination of physical examinations, urine tests, and imaging studies. Some common diagnostic tools include:
Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): A doctor will insert a finger into the rectum to check the size of the prostate.
Urinalysis: To rule out infections or other urinary issues.
Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test: A blood test that can help detect abnormal prostate growth or potential prostate cancer.
Ultrasound or MRI: These imaging techniques may be used to assess the size and shape of the prostate.
In Singapore, many hospitals and specialized clinics offer comprehensive diagnostic services for BPH, ensuring a swift and accurate diagnosis.
Conservative Treatment Options for BPH
For men with mild BPH symptoms, conservative treatment may be sufficient. Enlarged prostate treatment in Singapore focuses on lifestyle modifications and medication:
Lifestyle Changes: Reducing fluid intake before bed, avoiding caffeine or alcohol, and practising pelvic floor exercises can help manage symptoms.
Medications: Alpha-blockers (e.g., tamsulosin) help relax prostate and bladder muscles, improving urine flow. 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors (e.g., finasteride) reduce prostate size by blocking the hormones that promote prostate growth.
Herbal Supplements: Some men turn to natural remedies like saw palmetto or beta-sitosterol, though the medical community still debates their effectiveness.
These treatments can help relieve symptoms and delay the need for more invasive interventions.
Minimally Invasive Procedures for BPH
For men who do not respond well to medications, minimally invasive procedures are available. These treatments can provide relief with less risk and a faster recovery time than traditional surgery.
Some of the most popular minimally invasive options in Singapore include:
Transurethral Microwave Thermotherapy (TUMT): This procedure uses heat to shrink the prostate tissue, relieving pressure on the urethra.
Transurethral Needle Ablation (TUNA): Radiofrequency energy is used to destroy excess prostate tissue.
UroLift: A novel procedure that involves lifting and holding the prostate tissue away from the urethra using small implants, allowing for improved urine flow without cutting or removing tissue.
These procedures are performed under local anaesthesia and usually require only a short hospital stay.
Surgical Options for BPH
In cases of severe BPH or when other treatments fail, surgery may be recommended. The most common surgical treatment for BPH is Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP). This procedure involves removing excess prostate tissue through the urethra using a resectoscope. It is considered the gold standard for BPH surgery and offers long-term symptom relief.
Other surgical options include:
Laser Prostatectomy: A laser is used to remove or vaporize prostate tissue.
Open Prostatectomy: In rare cases, a large prostate may require traditional surgery, which involves making an incision in the abdomen to remove part of the prostate.
Singapore's advanced healthcare infrastructure means that men can access the latest surgical techniques, minimizing the risks and ensuring a faster recovery.
What to Expect After BPH Treatment in Singapore
After undergoing treatment for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) in Singapore, patients can generally expect a gradual improvement in urinary symptoms within 1 to 3 months.
Most procedures, including Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) and minimally invasive techniques like Rezum or UroLift, typically allow for a return to normal activities within 2 to 4 weeks.
Post-treatment, a urinary catheter may be required for 7 to 14 days to ensure proper healing and prevent complications such as clot formation. Patients are advised to monitor their recovery closely, as symptoms can continue to improve over several weeks following the procedure.
Final Thoughts
With a range of treatment options available in Singapore, men suffering from BPH can find effective solutions that suit their needs. Whether through lifestyle changes, medications, minimally invasive procedures, or surgery, treatment options are tailored to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.
For those seeking specialized care, urology specialists in Singapore are available to provide proper treatment. TTW Urology is a reputable clinic with a team of well-known urologists who treat BPH and other urological conditions. Contact them today for a consultation and find relief from BPH symptoms.
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