For many men, urinating turns into a nightmare, especially as they grow older. Not only do they experience severe pain every time they visit the loo, but they suffer other difficulties while urinating, followed by frequent and urgent visits to the bathroom, every few hours. This throws a major dampener to the quality of life.

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Most of these issues are due to blockage caused by an enlarged prostate. Known as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), this block not only leads to difficulties in urination but also causes other problems like kidney stones, bladder infections and so on.

Surgery – the only Option till now

The most effective treatment method available till now is enlarged prostate surgery known as TURP (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate). Though relatively minor, it was still a surgery that involves anaesthesia, an uncomfortable catheter, a hospital stay for a few days and so on. Not exactly the ideal solution.

Studies and Research Underway

For years, urologists have been working on non-invasive procedures to address the problem. They have been trying to figure out an outpatient treatment method that doesn’t involve surgery and can efficiently handle the problem without any risks and complications. Medications, microwaves, freezing, lasers, were all tried to remove and destroy the prostate tissue that was the reason for the blockage. Unfortunately, none of these trials met with expected results.

A Promising Treatment Method – The Urolift

Recently, a new treatment method has been generating hope among urologists and patients. This method, known as PUL (Prostate Urethral Lift) or Urolift, works effectively with fewer side effects when compared to other invasive procedures.

An FDA approved device the Urolift makes use of small bolsters to move the blocking prostate tissues up and out, thereby opening the channel to allow easy urination. It takes the prostate glands against its own layers, thus clearing the block.

Most effective, least invasive and least risky, the Urolift is one of the most promising enlarged prostate treatment methods right now.

How does it Work?

The urologist first inserts the device (Urolift) through the obstructed urethra. This provides access to the enlarged prostate glands. Then, the doctor places several tiny implants on each side of the urethra. This helps hold the prostate lobes apart, thereby effectively reducing the compression on the urethra. With a reduction in pressure on the urethra, urine flows easily.

Additional Reading: Do you Know about 5 Strange Things that can Cause Kidney Stones?

Generally, the procedure is done within a few minutes and mostly in the doctor’s office. There is no need for catheters and patients can return home on the same day. Few patients may experience slight discomfort in the pelvic area and notice few drops of blood in urine, for a few days post the procedure. However, the discomfort and blood stop within 48-hours after the procedure and the patient can return to regular activities with no issues.

If you’re considering the Urolift, here are a few things that you must know:

  • Results Vary – The growth and blockage location and degree varies from one person to another. This means some men can get effective results with the Urolift, while others will require advanced surgical treatments like the TURP.
  • Side Effects – The Urolift has minimal side effects, and these can include pelvic discomfort, increased urge to urinate, urinary discomfort and so on. However, most of these side effects resolve within a few weeks after the procedure. One of the greatest advantages of the Urolift is that it does not have sexual side effects.
  • Removal – If for any reason, you feel uncomfortable with the Urolift, it can be easily removed within a few minutes by your urologist.

While the Urolift comes with several benefits, not all treatment methods are effective for everyone. So, make sure to consult a urologist, assess the location and degree of blockage to determine if the urolift is right for you.

Additional Reading: Suffering from Kidney Stone Disease? Need to Take Steps Immediately