BPH (Benign Prostetic Hyperplasia) is an enlargement of the prostate or development of nodules which compress the urethra interrupting urinary flow. Thes in turn leads to urinary symptoms most often associated with BPH such as urinary hesitancy, frequency, infections and retention. BPH is not considered to be a precursor to cancer, but PSA (prostate specific antigens) may be elevated due to increase in organ size and the inflammation that may occur with infections.
Why Treat BPH?
Most men would classify the symptoms of BPH, urinary problems, as an annoyance more than anything else. However, if left untreated, BPH can lead to severe urinary tract infections from bacteria growing in urine which was not voided, bladder stones created from salts in the retained urine, and even kidney failure which can result from chronic urinary retgention. To avoid the more severe complications of BPH, it is encouraged to seek treatment. BPH is a progressive disease, meaning it will not get better with time, it will get worse.
Available Treatments for BPH
There are several treatments available. You should discuss each of them with your physician to determine what treatment is best for you.
The most common treatment are medications known as alpha-blockers such as doxazocin (Hytrin), terazocin (Cardura), alfuocin (Urotraxal), and tamsulosin (Flomax). They can treat the symptoms of BPH by relaxing smooth muscles in the bladder to allow for normal urinary flow.
Finasteride (Proscar) and dutasteride (Avodart) inhibit the production of DHT, a hormone that causes the prostate to grow. These two drugs can stop the growth of the prostate, and for some men, shrink the prostate.
In some studies, it has been reported up to 30% of men do not continue theray due to side effects, no response, or noncompliance. Because of this, other treatments are available. Again, be sure to discuss these options with your physician.
Where does Viagra fit in?
Viagra, Cialis and Levitra are well known for the ability to treat ED (Erectile Dysfunction), but what does that have to do with BPH? Physicians have noticed that patients with ED also have BPH. It was thought this was a coincidence, but now there is new thinking that the two diseases are related. Studies have begun using ED medications to treat BPH as well. It is thought that the way the drugs dilate the blood vessels in the penis also enlarge the blood vessels in the prostate and bladder which improve urinary symptoms.
The doses required for BPH treatment are every day. Most patients have a better response with a combinatrion therapy of the alpha blockers and the ED medications. Most men also don't mind the side effects; however, patients do need to be warned against the possibility of hypotension (a sudden drop in blood pressure).
Discuss All Options with your Physician
Viagra can be used to treat both ED and BPH and future formulations may be available specifically for the treatment of BPH. Studies have shown combination therapy is more beneficial than monotherapy.
If you suffer from BPH, be sure to discuss all options with your physician and be actively involved in your treatment decision. Ask your physician about side effects and outcomes with each treatment. It is your body and you have to be well informed and take an active role in your therapy.
