If you have an enlarged prostate, or what is also called Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), you may also experience issues with erectile function. Studies have shown a correlation between the two, and treating erectile issues first can actually help to improve BPH symptoms. Here are a few ways that BPH may affect erectile function, and some treatments that can help with symptoms of both.
Are BPH and erectile issues related?
Men with BPH have an enlarged prostate, which is the gland that surrounds the tube that carries urine. Symptoms often include:
- Often feeling like you need to urinate
- Trouble starting and stopping urination
- A weak stream of urine
- The symptoms may wake you up at night.
Some experts agree that the worse your BPH symptoms are, the more likely you'll have sexual issues such as:
- Reduced sexual drive
- Trouble keeping an erection
- Less sexual satisfaction
While the prostate is an important organ for male sexual function, BPH is more of a urination issue than a sexual one. These problems may have something to do with genetics or age, or it’s possible that the sleeplessness or anxiety that can come from an enlarged prostate makes sexual problems worse.
Usually, an enlarged prostate isn’t a problem unless symptoms become burdensome, treatment is needed and concerns with erectile function arise. Luckily, there are a few remedies out there that can help with the symptoms surrounding BPH.
Remedies to Help with BPH
Lifestyle changes
Some of the risk factors for BPH and erectile function are the same as those for heart disease and diabetes. By eating a heart-healthy diet and being active, you may be able to stave off some of the sexual problems associated with BPH. Avoiding heavily processed foods and boosting the number of natural foods you eat, can help, as well.
Fish such as salmon, trout, and mackerel are anti-inflammatory and high in omega-3 fatty acids, while vegetables like broccoli, kale, and cauliflower can help with overall prostate health.
Medications
Some experts believe you may be able to treat BPH and erectile issues at the same time with certain medications. For instance, alpha-blockers cause the blood vessels of the prostate to constrict, making it easier to urinate. When men with BPH take them on a daily basis, their symptoms improve. They can help with BPH symptoms and erectile function, which means you might be able to take care of two conditions with one pill.
Hydrotherapy/vacuum pumps
Vacuum pumps and hydrotherapy are a frequently overlooked way to regain the ability to gain/ maintain an erection. When used, vacuum pumps create a vacuum around the penis, quickly drawing in blood, resulting in an erection. Built to remove the key issues people report with standard vacuum pumps, VaxAid can be used with air (like other pumps), or in water. VaxAid delivers more vacuum power than other pumps, with many users reporting that this leads to quicker (and longer-lasting) erections.
While not a life-threatening condition, living with BPH can be uncomfortable; however, there is no need to suffer the effects of an enlarged prostate. With new and evolving treatments out there today, you and your healthcare provider can help to identify the best treatment options to help you get back to your life.
