Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

Causes of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

1) Hormonal Changes

The primary factor in the development of BPH is believed to be hormonal changes, particularly the influence of the male sex hormone testosterone and its derivative, dihydrotestosterone (DHT). As men get older, levels of testosterone and DHT may increase, leading to the growth and proliferation of prostate cells.

2) Family History and Genetics

Men with a family history of the condition are more likely to develop it themselves. Certain genetic variations may increase the risk of BPH.

3) Age

BPH is predominantly a condition of older men. Majority of men over the age of 50 are experiencing some degree of prostate enlargement. By age 80, around 90% of men will have BPH.

4) Hormonal Imbalances

Imbalances in hormone levels, such as an increase in oestrogen, may contribute to the development of BPH.

5) Inflammation

Chronic inflammation of the prostate gland (prostatitis) may play a role in the development or progression of BPH.

6) Lifestyle Factors

Certain lifestyle factors, such as obesity, lack of physical activity, and a diet high in saturated fats and low in fruits and vegetables, have been associated with an increased risk of BPH.

Symptoms of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

1) Urgency

A sudden and compelling need to urinate, which may be difficult to postpone.

2) Urinary Tract Infections

BPH can increase the risk of UTIs due to urinary retention and incomplete bladder emptying.

3) Hematuria

Blood in the urine, which may be visible or detected on urinalysis.

4) Urinary Frequency

Needing to urinate more often than usual, day as well as at night.

5) Weak Urine Stream

flow weak or dribbling urine stream.

6) Hesitancy

Difficulty starting urination despite feeling the urge to urinate.

7) Incomplete Emptying

Feeling like the bladder has not completely emptied after urination.

8) Straining

Needing to strain or push to start or complete urination.

9) Intermittent Urinary Flow

Urine flow that starts and stops during urination.

10) Incontinence

Inability to completely empty the bladder, leading to involuntary leakage of urine.

11) Urinary Retention

In severe cases, BPH can lead to urinary retention, where the bladder cannot empty completely, causing discomfort and increasing the risk of urinary tract infections.

Diagnosis

1. Digital rectal examination : to assess size, shape, and consistency of your prostate gland.
2. Blood Tests : prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test, may be done to measure PSA levels in the blood. Elevated PSA levels can indicate various prostate conditions, including BPH and prostate cancer.
3. USG : To assess the size , shape of prostate , residual urine output

Homoeopathy and BPH

Homoeopathy offers a natural and holistic approach to managing Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), focusing on alleviating symptoms and addressing the underlying causes of the condition. Unlike conventional treatments, which often involve medications or surgery, homoeopathy aims to stimulate the body's own healing mechanisms using highly individualised remedies.

Homoeopathic medicines for BPH

1. Conium
   • It mainly acts on glands and causes its enlargement
   • Suited to old people with great debility
   • Much difficulty in passing urine
   • It flows and stops again
   • Interrupted discharge of urine
   • Dribbling of urine in old men
2. Baryta carb
   • It is a useful remedy in conditions of enlarged prostate
   • Frequent urging to urinate
   • Burning in urethra on urinating
   • This remedy is suited to old man when degenerative changes begin
3. Sabal Serrulata
   • Frequent urging to pass urine (especially at night)
   • Difficulty passing urine
   • Area around prostate feels cold
   • Painful ejaculations and intercourse
   • Patient passes prostatic fluid with stools
4. Staphysagria
   • It mainly acts on the genito- urinary tract
   • Complains usually starts after bad effects of anger and insults
   • Patient is very sensitive as to what others say about her
   • Ineffectual urging to urinate
   • Pressure on bladder feels as if it did not empty
   • Sensation as if a drop of urine were rolling continuously along the channel
   • Burning in urethra when not urinating
   • Urging and pain after urinating

Benefits of Homoeopathic Treatment

1. Individualised Care: Homoeopathy recognizes that each person is unique. A homoeopath will assess your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle to prescribe a personalised treatment plan tailored to your needs.
2. Gentle and Natural: Homoeopathic remedies are derived from natural substances and are known for their minimal side effects. They work in harmony with the body, promoting self-healing and overall well-being.
3. Holistic Approach: Homoeopathy takes into account not only the physical symptoms but also the emotional and mental aspects of an individual. It aims to restore balance at all levels, providing comprehensive care.
4. Long-Term Relief: By addressing the underlying causes of Ulcerative Colitis,homoeopathy strives to achieve long-term relief and improved quality of life.

Consulting a Homeopath

Consulting a qualified homoeopath is crucial for the effective management of BPH. At Sanjivani Homoeopathic Clinic, we provide personalised treatment plans based on detailed case assessments. Our approach involves understanding the patient's complete medical history, lifestyle, dietary habits, and emotional well-being. By considering these factors, we can select the most appropriate homoeopathic remedies and provide comprehensive care.

Our holistic treatment not only aims to reduce the size of the prostate and alleviate symptoms but also emphasises the importance of proper diet, regular exercise, and lifestyle modifications. This integrated approach helps in achieving long-term health benefits and improving the overall quality of life for our patients.