6 Tips for Sleeping Better with an Enlarged Prostate

If you’re one of the millions of men suffering from an enlarged prostate, or Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), you know how uncomfortable it can be to get a good night’s sleep. The frequent need to use the restroom makes it nearly impossible to get significant rest before the next urge arises.

Fortunately, there are ways to help improve this situation. Let’s dive into 6 tips for finding a more restful sleep – starting tonight!

What causes an enlarged prostate?

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), common in men over 50, is characterized by an increase in the size of the prostate gland. It is set in motion by an overproduction of hormones stimulating the growth of prostate cells.

The root cause of BPH is unknown, but there may be a link between hormonal imbalances and genetic factors. Other possible causes include age-related changes in the bladder muscles and nerves, medications, chronic inflammation, and radiation therapy for cancer treatment.

Symptoms of an enlarged prostate

When the prostate enlarges, it presses against the urethra – the tube that carries urine out of your body. This restricts the flow of urine, and you may feel a strong urge to urinate even when the bladder isn’t full.

Frequent urination can also be caused by inflammation or infection in the prostate or urinary tract. If you are experiencing this problem, it’s best to play it safe and contact your doctor. 

Some other common symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate include:

• Difficulty urinating
• A weak or slow urine stream
• Feeling of incomplete bladder emptying 
• Dribbling or loss of control

How to get better sleep with an enlarged prostate

Here are six helpful tips on how to help get restful slumber even when dealing with enlarged prostate issues.

1. Avoid drinking fluids late at night: Drinking too much late in the evening can increase your need to urinate during the night. To avoid frequent bathroom trips due, try not to drink anything two hours before bedtime. 
2. Invest in a special mattress and pillow: A firm mattress and supportive pillow can help alleviate symptoms and make sleeping more comfortable. Invest in a good quality mattress designed specifically for people with swollen prostates. This will help reduce pressure while you sleep, leading to better overall rest. 
3. Consider taking supplements: Certain supplements like Saw Palmetto or Pygeum Africanum can benefit a swollen prostate by providing natural relief of symptoms. Talk to your doctor before taking any supplement, as they can sometimes interact with medications or have other side effects. 
4. Exercise regularly: Regular exercise has many benefits, including reducing swollen prostate symptoms and improving sleep quality. Exercise releases endorphins that help reduce stress, leading to better sleep. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate daily activity like walking, swimming, or biking. 
5. Reduce stress levels: Stress is one of the biggest enemies of a good night’s sleep, so it is vital to find ways to relax. Try calming activities such as yoga or meditation before bedtime to help reduce stress levels and make it easier to drift off. 
6. Consider using a catheter: If loss of control is leading to accidents during the night, or you have immobility issues, a male external catheter may be the answer. These devices catch the urine and direct it to an overnight collection bag.  

Treatment options for enlarged prostate 

Your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes such as limiting your intake of caffeine and alcohol and avoiding spicy or acidic foods that can irritate your bladder. They may also suggest medications to reduce the size of your prostate and improve urinary flow. 

Medications are a common treatment option for an enlarged prostate. They work by blocking certain hormones that contribute to prostate enlargement, reducing pressure on the urethra, and relieving urinary symptoms. 

Commonly prescribed medications include:

• Alpha-blockers tamsulosin (Flomax) or terazosin (Hytrin): This helps relax the prostate and bladder neck muscles, making urinating easier. 
• 5-alpha reductase inhibitors finasteride (Proscar) or dutasteride (Avodart): These are also used to shrink an enlarged prostate. 

If medications don’t provide relief from symptoms, surgery may be recommended. Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is a common procedure that removes excess tissue from the prostate, relieving pressure on the urethra and improving urine flow. TURP can be done under general or local anesthesia with sedation. Recovery typically takes several days.

Other surgical options include open prostatectomy, which involves removing part of the prostate through an incision in the abdomen, and transurethral microwave thermotherapy (TUMT), which uses heat to destroy prostate tissue. 

Achieve a better nighttime rest today

We understand how disconcerting it can be to continue without improvement. However, men can find relief, comfort, and assurance with trusted medical supplies for prostate problems ranging from Male External Catheters to No-touch Closed System Catheters.

Managing the common prostate problem can be difficult, but with the right support it doesn’t have to be. With our customer service team available around the clock, you know you will get the best care and products available. 

If you are struggling with an enlarged prostate or finding relief for other health issues, visit our website for the best solution for your discomfort. You may also contact us for more details about how our products can help you reclaim a restful night’s sleep!