TCM for Prostate Enlargement

Prostate enlargement (also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia) is a common condition which is usually found in older men. It affects around 60% of men who are aged over 60 to some degree. The prostate gland is located between the penis and the bladder in a male. When the gland is enlarged, it can often cause blockages or pressure on the bladder and urethra. This usually results in symptoms such as:

• Frequent need to urinate
• Difficulty fully expelling all urine
• Trouble with starting urination
• Blood in urine
• Weakened urine flow

These symptoms can vary from mild to severe depending on the individual. Many who suffer from prostate enlargement worry that it will increase the chance of developing prostate cancer. This is not the case, as men who suffer from prostate enlargement and men who don't have the same chances of developing prostate cancer.

The cause for prostate enlargement is still unclear but it commonly thought to be associated with changes in hormone levels from ageing. Most people who suffer from prostate enlargement are over the age of 60.

Western treatment for this condition includes:

Lifestyle changes - This includes things such as drinking less liquids, minimising alcohol and caffeine intake, regular exercise, etc.

Medication - Medications are often used in conjunction with the aforementioned lifestyle changes

Bladder Training - This is an exercise where depending on the individuals conditions, the patient will learn to train their bladder to urinate at certain time intervals

Surgery - Surgery is only used when prostate enlargement is very severe and/or won't respond to medications

TCM approach to prostate enlargement:

Traditional Chinese doctors see this condition as an accumulation of damp heat and kidney deficiency. The condition can be treated using various methods such as acupuncture, moxibustion and herbal medicine. The most common form of treatment is the use of acupuncture in conjunction with herbal medicine.

Lifestyle changes, such as increasing the consumption of nuts, seeds, fruits and vegetables, may also be recommended. Similar to Western treatment, TCM doctors will also encourage regular exercise and a healthy diet, consisting of the foods listed above and foods that contain lycopene. Foods that contain lycopene include: grapefruit, watermelon, papaya, apricot, tomatoes and guava, etc.

Over the years in my practice, I have used acupuncture and herbal medicine to treat many patients who suffer from prostate enlargement. If you have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact us.