Is there an OTC or natural alternative to Flomax?

[Relztrah]

Since we're all adults here I will ask this without embarrassment and trust that nobody is offended by a question of a personal nature. I am a 55 year old man in good health, although I have all the symptons (and I mean all of them) of BHP, a.k.a. enlarged prostrate. Yes, I'm that guy on the commercial who misses the grand slam because he's in the men's room at the ball park.

I had a prostrate exam two years ago at which time my doctor didn't mention any abnormalities, although since that time the symptoms have become more frequent and more pronounced.

I am also aware that these same symptoms can indicate prostrate cancer, and for that reason I will schedule another exam. And at that time he will very likely prescribe Flomax or another drug to treat BHP, and I am not opposed to that. But in the meantime I am wondering if any other men my age or older have used an over-the-counter or natural remedy for BHP with satisfactory results.

Thank you for any suggestions.

[Whyzman]

Did they do a PSA (prostate-specific antigen) test?

[mjc]

Saw Palmetto...

[Whyzman]

In the for what it's worth:

http://health.howstuffworks.com/home-remedies-for-prostate-problems.htm

[classicsoftware]

Saw Palmetto doesn't really work. Do what your doctor says. Avoid Caffeine, and don't hold it in. When you gotta go, you gotta go....

[Paul Komski]

I had a prostrate exam two years ago at which time my doctor didn't mention any abnormalities, although since that time the symptoms have become more frequent and more pronounced. You need a follow up and don't pre-empt what treatment may be advised. Flomax is a potent drug and not to be prescribed without a full history.

[kenner]

I have never heard of an herb that works but the pharmaceuticals should be viewed with caution. Reading Neurology Now at the docs office, it seems that class of drugs as well as those in the Prilosec class, cause memory loss and confusion in older adults with long time use. I need every single brain cell so I'll pass on drugs for now.

[Relztrah]

I agree with all the above posts, and frankly the possible side-effects of Flomax are worse than the symptoms. I can live with the symptoms and I've learned to adapt, such as drinking no fluids in the evening or before a trip.

I'll take my doctor's advice, but this same doctor--whom I trust--wanted to put me on Avacor for high choloesterol and I was able to lower it to an acceptable level with diet and moderate exercise. Perhaps I'll find a way to contol the BPH (if indeed that's what I have) without resorting to a prescription drug.

Thank you all for your interest. Is anybody out there actually taking Flomax or another drug for BPH? If so, what has your experience been?

[Paul Komski]

I have never heard of an herb that worksDon't take me too seriously but very many drugs are or come from "herbs" so I cant resist mentioning: digitalis and opium and even aspirin if you consider the willow tree to be a herb.

[tommy]

A couple of years ago, on the advice of my doctor, I tried Flomax. It didn't really help so we mutally decided to discontinue.

SHortly thereafter, I had an unrelated need for physical therapy to my lower body. As part of it, the therapist strongly promoted pelvic exercises to strengthen the pelvic muscles. The theory was that stronger pelvic muscles gave more proper support to the internal organs alowing then to function more normally. As a byproduct of that therapy, I found that my urination became significantly more normal. No, I don't pee like a 20 year old but I am at the point that I am satisfied I can live with the condition I am now in without drugs. And I continue to do the exercises daily.

Of course, cancer screening is a part of my annual physical checkup (PSA test).