Natural Ways to Cure an Enlarged Prostate

A male reproductive gland surrounding the urethra, the prostate is responsible for producing semen. Enlargement of the prostate gland (often referred to as benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH) occurs in many men as they get older.

Although it can lead to some complications involving the bladder, an enlarged prostate won't increase the risk of prostate cancer.

Symptoms of Enlarged Prostate
When tissues in the prostate enlarge, they may apply pressure to the urethra and partially block urine flow. This may trigger the following symptoms:

•difficulty starting urination
•weak urine stream
•inability to urinate
•dribbling at the end of urination
•incomplete emptying of the bladder
•incontinence
•frequent urination at nighttime
•pain with urination
Less than half of men with BPH show symptoms.

Treatment for Enlarged Prostate
Some men experience BPH-related complications such as bladder stones, bladder damage, urinary tract infections, and kidney damage. In these cases, doctors may pursue treatment with medication, surgery, and non-surgical therapies.

In other cases, however, self-care should suffice in treatment of BPH.

Home Remedies for Enlarged Prostate
Your doctor may suggest using the following self-care strategies to manage your BPH symptoms:

•urinating as soon as you get the urge
•avoiding alcohol and caffeine, especially at night
•avoiding drinking fluids within two hours of bedtime
•getting regular exercise
•decreasing your stress with the help of practices like yoga and meditation

You may also need to limit your use of over-the-counter cold and sinus medications containing decongestants or antihistamines, both of which may aggravate your symptoms. Certain natural remedies for cold and sinus problems may help reduce your need for such medications.