Enlarged prostate, medically known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is a common condition among men over the age of 50 in which the prostate grows larger than normal. It’s essential to understand the causes and symptoms of an enlarged prostate in order to take the necessary steps to diagnose and treat the problem.
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In this video, Dr. Bill Vanasupa, a board-certified urologist, discusses the effectiveness of medications for treating erectile dysfunction (ED). He notes that not all patients respond to medications and that the level of response can vary based on factors such as comorbidities, heart issues, and diabetes.
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For those considering this procedure, it is important to understand that a vasectomy can have an impact on a man’s sex life. This article will discuss what a vasectomy is, how it can affect a man’s sex life, and some advice and tips for those considering this procedure.
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Dr. Billy Vanasupa talks about the importance of informed decision-making when it comes to prostate cancer treatment. While medical professionals can offer guidance and recommendations based on the latest research and guidelines, ultimately, the patient should have a say in their treatment plan.
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While men may know that a vasectomy will prevent them from being able to have biological children, there are other important facts pertaining to its long-term effects that men need to know before making this decision.
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Vasectomy is the most common form of male sterilization and is a popular choice for couples who have completed their families. However, there are other alternatives to vasectomy, choices people might not be aware of.
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Arash Rafiei, a board-certified urologist, discusses the diverse nature of his profession and the importance of staying current with technology advancements. He emphasizes that urology involves a mix of both surgery and medicine.
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It is very important for those who have had a vasectomy to do the necessary steps for recovery in order to avoid any further complications. This includes consulting with a medical professional before the procedure, having a clear understanding of the risks, and following the doctor’s instructions.
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In this video, Dr. Raval provides a clear and concise overview of the different treatment options for prostate cancer. It is important for patients to take an active role in their own care and work closely with their doctor to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to their individual needs and circumstances.
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It is no surprise then that so many questions and myths about vasectomies exist. This article debunks five of the most common vasectomy myths with evidence from clinical studies. With accurate information and knowledge that vasectomies are a safe, effective and long-term option, men can make an informed decision.
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Prostate enlargement neither causes nor turns into prostate cancer, and is a completely separate condition. In fact, the risk of prostate cancer is lower in men with an enlarged prostate than in men without the condition. However, the two conditions are linked in various ways. Here are four ways in which BPH and prostate cancer are connected
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Recurrent urinary tract infections (RUTIs) are due to persistent re-infection of any part of the urinary tract by the same pathogen. The infections can be really frustrating as they keep coming back. When you have recurrent UTIs, you can use antibiotics to clear the infection within a few days. You can also use the following simple measures to prevent UTIs.
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Vasectomy is a permanent form of birth control that prevents a man from fathering biological children. The question of when to undergo the procedure is a personal one and there is no right time or age. However, on average, men tend to get the procedure at 35 years or older. It is important to note that a vasectomy is not recommended for men under the age of 18, and in some states, men under the age of 21 are not eligible for the procedure through federally-funded medical facilities.
It is important to make sure that you have given serious thought and consulted with professionals before making the decision to undergo the procedure. It is also important to consider factors such as your partner’s age and fertility. If your partner is nearing menopause or has a condition that prevents her from conceiving, a vasectomy may not be necessary.
It is also important to be aware that a change of mind is possible at any age, and it is crucial to thoroughly consider the decision before proceeding. If at any age, you are confident that you do not want children and a healthcare provider refuses to perform the procedure, it is recommended to seek a second opinion.
In terms of age limitations, there is no upper limit for a vasectomy as long as overall health is good enough. However, it is important to take into account any potential health risks and to discuss the pros and cons of the procedure with a healthcare professional. Ultimately, the right time to undergo a vasectomy is when you have fully considered the decision and are confident in your choice to not have any more biological children.
At Advanced Urology Institute, we prioritize your health, safety, and peace of mind. So, we ensure that we have enough time with you during consultation to explore the pros and cons of a vasectomy and make sure it is the right procedure for you. Book your consultation with us now to have your questions answered and to prepare yourself adequately for the procedure.
For more information on a vasectomy, vasectomy reversal, and other urological and male reproductive health services, visit the site “Advanced Urology Institute.”
Infertility can be a frustrating and emotionally challenging experience for couples trying to conceive. The causes of infertility can be attributed to health problems, environmental factors, or lifestyle choices.
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An overactive bladder (OAB) is a condition where you are not able to hold urine in your bladder due to involuntary bladder muscle contractions. It causes a frequent, sudden and difficult-to-control urge to pass urine, which may lead to unintentional loss of urine. You may also feel the urge to pass urine 8 or more times in 24 hours.
With an overactive bladder, the first-line treatment is usually behavioral and lifestyle changes. But if the condition remains troublesome even with the changes, further treatment may include medications, bladder injections, nerve stimulation, percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (PTNS), or surgery.
Symptoms of an overactive bladder can be relieved by avoiding foods and drinks known to irritate the bladder.
Common culprits include alcohol, caffeine, artificial sweeteners, citrus fruits and juices, and chocolate. Other foods and drinks to avoid or reduce are sodas and fizzy drinks, cranberry juice, corn syrup, tomatoes, sugar, honey, vinegar, dairy, and spicy foods.
Since irritation from foods and drinks vary from person to person, you can benefit by keeping a diary of what you take and the associated bladder symptoms. A diary can help you work out which foods are causing you problems.
Quitting smoking can remedy an overactive bladder. That’s because smoking tends to make the symptoms of the condition worse, while the coughing fits associated with smoking tend to increase OAB-associated leakage of urine.
Another change that can improve an overactive bladder is withdrawal of medications contributing to the problem. For instance, diuretics, antihistamines, muscle relaxants, sedatives, narcotics, and alpha-adrenergic antagonists worsen OAB symptoms. So if you’re taking any medications you suspect to be behind the problem, speak with your doctor about alternatives.
Also, losing weight can reduce the pressure on your bladder and pelvic floor muscles, and improve your bladder control.
There are a number of bladder control techniques you can apply, including scheduled urination, delayed urination, and double-void technique.
By scheduled urination, you keep a diary of your urinary habits, such as bathroom visits, any leakages, and urgency symptoms. Based on the patterns in your diary, you start scheduled bathroom trips aimed at adding at least 15 minutes to your normal urination times.
For example, if you pass urine every 60 minutes, you change this and schedule your bathroom breaks for every 75 minutes. Then you stick to these scheduled visits regardless of whether you feel the urge to pass urine or not. After that, you gradually increase the time interval between your bathroom visits
Delayed urination means every time you feel the urge to go, you try to delay by some minutes, if possible, usually by at least 5 minutes. You can use relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing to help delay. The aim is to gradually increase the delay time until you have achieved a 3-4 hour gap between your bathroom visits.
Double voiding technique is useful if you feel your bladder does not empty fully. It is also worthwhile to double void before bedtime.
To do so, you sit in the toilet, lean slightly forward, rest your hands on your knees or thighs, and urinate as normal. Then you remain in the toilet and wait for another 30 seconds, leaning slightly further forward to urinate once more.
Kegels involve strengthening exercises on the pelvic floor muscles, which are the muscles that help to control urine flow. To locate your pelvic floor muscles, try to stop urine flow midstream. If you succeed, it means you have located the muscles.
Now, practice squeezing these muscles for 10 seconds and relaxing for 3 seconds, repeating the pattern 10 times. Then try to do 3 sets of 10 repetitions daily. Deep breathe to make the process easier.
Drinking plenty of water is essential for your health, and you shouldn’t stop because of an overactive bladder.
That’s because taking too little water allows your urine to be more concentrated, which may irritate your bladder lining and increase urgency. But excess fluid intake may also make frequency symptoms worse, such as fluid intake before bed contributing to urinating during the night.
Make sure to drink 6-8 glasses of water daily, but to avoid liquid intake 2-3 hours before going to bed.
There are a number of herbs and supplements that are effective in treating an overactive bladder. Speak with your urologist about these options for recommendations, but don’t use them without your doctor’s advice.
This is a blend of 10 traditional herbs that help with overactive bladder by increasing the bladder’s capacity and lowering bladder contractions. It reduces frequency, urgency, and nighttime urination in people with the condition.
Capsaicin is an extract from chili peppers. It works by blocking signals from the nerves in the bladder and ensures the bladder holds urine longer. Plus, it helps to manage pelvic pain syndrome, of which overactive bladder is usually a symptom.
The extract is effective in improving pelvic floor health. It helps to strengthen pelvic floor muscles and enhances control of muscles involved in passing urine.
Magnesium helps maintain normal blood pressure, reduces muscles spasms, and allows the bladder to empty fully. As an alternative to magnesium hydroxide, you can add magnesium rich foods, like bananas, kale, pumpkin seeds, and cashews to your diet if your doctor deems it safe.
Saw palmetto has been tested in men with an enlarged prostate, where it has demonstrated efficacy in treating the condition as well as relieving bladder control symptoms. Hence, using it helps improve bladder issues associated with OAB.
This is a chemical derived from a cactus-like plant. It is effective in blocking signals from the bladder nerves to the brain; hence, reducing the strength of the urge to pass urine, allows the bladder to hold urine longer, and relieves symptoms of an overactive bladder.
Increased intake of vitamin D lowers the risk of pelvic floor disorders, such as bladder leakage, especially in women. For older adults, more vitamin D in the diet or as a supplement effectively prevents bladder leakage.
This is an enzyme found in pineapple plant. It has powerful anti-inflammatory abilities and prevents bladder irritation. Therefore, it has a positive effect on those with an overactive bladder.
Cornsilk refers to the hair-like threads found on top of the ears of corn and beneath cornhusks. It is rich in flavonoids and is helpful in relieving bladder control symptoms by reducing inflammation and protecting the bladder wall against irritation.
This is a wild flower with tiny hooks on its stems, seeds, and leaves. It reduces bladder inflammation and protects the bladder wall from irritation.
At Advanced Urology Institute, we are known for our comprehensive, accurate diagnosis and tailored approach to treating urological disorders. With an overactive bladder, we make sure to establish the underlying cause, whether weak or stretched pelvic floor muscles, an enlarged prostate, chronic UTI, obesity, diabetes, or a nerve problem.
Then, as first-line treatment, we often recommend natural remedies such as behavioral, lifestyle and dietary changes. For a more bothersome and persistent overactive bladder, we offer a variety of surgical and non-surgical interventions.
For more information on an overactive bladder and other urological disorders, visit the site “Advanced Urology Institute.”
