Enlarged prostate is a common problem faced by men over 50 years of age. Medically this is also known as benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) or benign prostate hypertrophy. Prostate gland is situated beneath your bladder and surrounds the urethra. This is the tube which helps excrete urine out of the bladder. With age, when the prostrate gland grows, there are two problems that arise. (1) It surrounds the urethra, it can compress it and partially or completely block the urine flow. (2) It contract the muscles around the urethra making it difficult to relax and pass urine. The main problem that is faced by men with enlarged prostrate gland is not pain problems but difficulty in urination, frequent urination, difficulty to start urination despite of urgency, which can ultimately lead to problems like Urinary tract infection. Enlarged prostate treatment most commonly includes surgical procedure to remove a part or whole prostate gland or medication.
But before opting for surgical treatment, it is better to opt for certain home remedies, which can help to improve urination and reduce the symptoms. Lifestyle changes and proper diet can help a lot. In most cases self care tips are enough to overcome the problem.
- Holy basil leaves: Crush some holy basil leaves. Mix it with yogurt. Consume this mixture once everyday. You can add few drops of honey in the mixture.
- Warm water tub: Another effective enlarged prostate remedy is to sit in a warm water tub for few minute.
- Palmetto: This is effective as an enlarged prostrate remedy. It helps in dealing with problems like urination at night, swelling and inflammation and pain.
- Coconut oil: Take virgin coconut oil 1 tsp in 1 cup milk daily .
- Kegel Exercise: Kegel exercises are useful in improving blood circulation to these tissues. Kegel exercises are performed by tightening all the muscles around the scrotum and anus. Repeat this tightening of the muscles 10 times. Try doing this “invisible” exercise 4-5 times daily, while driving, reading, etc.
- Tomaotes: It would appear that making tomatoes part of your diet is a good idea if you are concerned about your prostate's health.
- Pumpkin seeds: Pumpkin seeds are used by German doctors to treat difficult urination that accompanies an enlarged prostate that is not cancerous. The seeds contain diuretic properties and plenty of zinc, which helps repair and build the immune system. You can enjoy pumpkin seeds by eating them plain. Remove the shells and don't add salt. You can also try a tea. Crush a handful of fresh seeds and place in the bottom of a 1-pint jar. Fill with boiling water. Let cool to room temperature. Strain and drink a pint of pumpkin seed tea a day.
- Fish: Try to get 2 servings a week of fish high in omega-3 oils (the good oil), such as tuna, mackerel, or salmon.
Self Care Tips for Enlarged Prostrate
- Beverages: You should limit your intake of water and any other liquid beverages two to three hours before going to bed or after 6 pm in the evening. Always remember to empty your bladder before you sleep at night.
- Alcohol: Avoid taking alcohol as the caffeine in alcohol tends to tighten the neck of the bladder and thus makes urination more difficult.
- Attend all urinational calls: Whenever there is an urge, dont wait. Visit the toilet when you first feel like emptying your bladder.
- Water: Don't restrict your water intake in the day; drink at least 8-10 glasses of water in a day.
- Yoga and meditation: Help to relax and maintain a correct position while sitting.
- Follow a healthy diet which includes lots of vegetables, fruits, nuts and seeds.
- Avoid starchy, sweet, spicy and seasoned foods.
- Remain active and avoid stress.
