Enlarged prostate / BPH (adjunctive care)
Also known as: benign prostatic hyperplasia, bph, enlarged prostate, prostate enlargement
An enlarged prostate (BPH) is common in older men and causes a weak stream, frequent urination and night-time trips to the toilet. A GP check — including ruling out prostate cancer — comes first, and medicines or surgery are standard options. Chinese medicine frames it as Kidney deficiency, Damp-Heat in the lower burner, or Qi and Blood stagnation.
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Lifestyle & Diet
- •Have a GP check, including a PSA discussion, before starting adjunctive care.
- •Reduce evening fluids, caffeine and alcohol.
- •Don't hold on too long — urinate when you feel the urge.
- •Review medicines with your GP or pharmacist; some decongestants worsen symptoms.
- •Keep a bladder diary if your doctor asks for one.
Cautions & Contraindications
- •New urinary symptoms must be medically assessed to exclude prostate cancer before adjunctive treatment.[]
- •Empty the bladder before needling lower abdominal points (CV3, CV4).[]
When to reassess or seek care again
Track night voids and symptom scores monthly; PSA and medical monitoring stay with the GP or urologist.
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Sources & Further Reading
Clinical guidance, red flags and safety notes on this page draw on the following current sources alongside the classical references above.
- NHS · 2024
- PCFA · 2024
- AHPRA / Chinese Medicine Board of Australia · 2024
Educational reference for licensed practitioners. Not a substitute for individual clinical assessment. Refer to conventional care for any red-flag or undiagnosed presentation.