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What is BPH?
Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions
More About PAE
Relief Without Surgery
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Clear Answers for Peace of Mind
Find clear, straightforward answers to the most common questions about BPH and PAE, so you can make confident, informed decisions about your health.
Have more questions? Send us an email and we’ll be happy to help:
What is BPH?
BPH, or Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. It is common in men over 50 and can cause urinary symptoms like difficulty starting urination, weak flow, or frequent trips to the bathroom, especially at night.
What are the symptoms of BPH?
Common symptoms include a slow or weak urine stream, feeling like your bladder is not empty after urinating, urgent or frequent urination, and waking up often at night to urinate. Symptoms can vary in severity from mild to more disruptive.
How is BPH treated?
Treatment options range from lifestyle changes and medications to minimally invasive procedures such as Prostatic Artery Embolization (PAE) or surgery. Your doctor will recommend the best option based on your symptoms, prostate size, and overall health.
Is BPH the same as prostate cancer?
No. BPH is not cancer and does not increase your risk of developing prostate cancer. However, both conditions can cause similar urinary symptoms, so it is important to have regular prostate checks to rule out other issues.
What is PAE?
Prostatic Artery Embolization is a minimally invasive procedure that reduces the size of the prostate by blocking blood flow to certain areas. It is used to treat symptoms of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia without the need for open surgery.
How is PAE performed?
A specially trained doctor called an interventional radiologist uses imaging guidance to insert a small catheter into the arteries supplying the prostate. Tiny particles are injected to block these arteries, which causes the prostate to shrink over time.
What are the benefits of PAE?
PAE offers relief from urinary symptoms without cutting or removing tissue. It is done under local anesthesia, usually allows for same-day discharge, and has a lower risk of sexual side effects compared to surgery.
How long does recovery take after PAE?
Most patients return to normal activities within a few days. Some may experience mild discomfort or increased urination for a short time, but these symptoms usually improve quickly as the prostate begins to shrink.
Symptoms Of An Enlarged Prostate
An enlarged prostate, or BPH, can cause frequent trips to the bathroom, especially at night, bladder discomfort, and changes in sexual function.
These symptoms can disrupt daily life, but effective treatment can bring lasting relief.
Frequent Urination
Needing to go more often than usual during the day.
Nightly Urination
Waking up multiple times to use the bathroom.
Bladder Pressure
Feeling constant fullness or discomfort in the bladder area.
Sexual Function
When Prostate Health Impacts Intimacy and Desire.
Making Expert Care Accessible
We work with most medical aids, and in many cases your treatment may be fully or partially covered. This helps ensure that advanced prostate care is within reach for more men across South Africa.
Cape Town Interventional Radiology, led by Dr Dale Creamer, head of Prostate Centre SA, is one of only five practices in the country appointed by Discovery South Africa as a designated service provider for Prostatic Artery Embolization (PAE).
Contact us today to find out if you are covered:
Book A Consultation
Taking the first step toward relief starts here. Whether you have questions, need a diagnosis, or are ready to explore treatment, our team is here to guide you. Book your consultation today and get the answers, support, and expert care you deserve.
Contact Us
+27 (0)83 680 3410
Practice Hours
Weekdays 8:00 – 17:00
Cape Town
KwaZulu-Natal
Melomed Hospital, John Ross Eco Junction, Richards Bay, KZN