Is there anything more annoying than stumbling out of bed at four in the morning with the urge to urinate, then standing there when nothing but a few dribbles come out? Especially when you were doing the same thing two and three hours earlier…
It’s an experience shared by men 60 and over. Estimates suggest nearly half of men develop symptoms of enlarged prostate by the time they are 60. That number jumps to 90 percent by the time they are 85. And it’s completely normal, and totally harmless in many cases. That does not mean, however, that it is not infinitely irritating and it presents the potential for complications.
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Benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH, is simply the growth of new tissue around the prostate. It happens with age and can occasionally block the flow of urine, increase the urge to urinate or lead to drips when you thought the pipeline was ready to pump.
Most men will be fine, while others may be at risk for bladder infections, urinary tract infections, and more. So, having your specific case looked at by a doctor is the best first step. But if they send you home and tell you to avoid bladder irritants like coffee, alcohol, tea, and to clean your diet up a little with more leafy greens and tomatoes, you’re probably in good shape. All those recommendations are likely to help. But if you still don’t feel collective comfortable, there are a few other natural remedies that may offer assistance.
- Saw Palmetto: Saw palmetto is a herbal remedy made from the fruit of some palm trees. There are small studies that suggest it may be helpful in relieving urinary symptoms related to BPH. However, larger reviews indicate it works no better than a placebo.
- Beta-sitosterol: Is an herbal mixture made from sitosterols and phytosterols, which are plant-based lipids. There is evidence that suggests taking them can improve the strength of urine flow.
- Phygeum: Small studies have shown taking this herbal supplement, made from the bark of African plum trees, may help empty the bladder and strengthen urine flow. It is often used in Europe to treat BPH.
Anything you can do to stay asleep through the night, or at least limit the number of times you get up to pee, is worthwhile. If you’re looking for some additional support in managing BPH, these options might be worth a shot.
Mohan Garikiparithi got his degree in medicine from Osmania University (University of Health Sciences). He practiced clinical medicine for over a decade before he shifted his focus to the field of health communications. During his active practice he served as the head of the Dept. of Microbiology in a diagnostic centre in India. On a three-year communications program in Germany, Mohan developed a keen interest in German Medicine (Homoeopathy), and other alternative systems of medicine. He now advocates treating different medical conditions without the use of traditional drugs. An ardent squash player, Mohan believes in the importance of fitness and wellness.
