Lifestyle Changes, Medications, Minimally Invasive Procedures Can Help

Prostate cancer remains one of the most common cancers among men. That’s why ThedaCare is highlighting Prostate Cancer Awareness Month in September and reminding people about the importance of recognizing urinary changes, understanding risk factors and seeking timely medical guidance.

One common condition is benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH. It’s a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate that becomes more common with age. It can cause symptoms that affect sleep, work, travel, exercise and everyday comfort.

“The good news is that people do not have to just live with this condition,” said Daniel Higgins, MD, of ThedaCare Urology Care in partnership with the Wisconsin Institute of Urology. “From lifestyle changes to medications to innovative, minimally invasive procedures like Aquablation, many effective treatments are available.”

What’s BPH?

The prostate is a small gland located below the bladder. The urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body, passes through the prostate.

As the prostate grows, it can squeeze the urethra making it difficult for urine to flow. That pressure can lead to lower urinary tract symptoms, such as a weak stream, frequent urination or waking often at night to use the bathroom.

BPH becomes more common after age 40 and is especially common after age 50. Between ages 50 and 60, around 50% of men will develop BPH. That jumps to 70% after age 60 and 80% to 90% after age 70.

Common signs and symptoms include:

• Needing to urinate more often, especially at night.
• A sudden or urgent need to go.
• Trouble starting urination, a weak stream or a stream that starts and stops.
• Dribbling after urination.
• Feeling like the bladder is not fully empty.

In more serious cases, signs of BPH may include urinary tract infections, bladder stones, blood in the urine or inability to urinate. Over time, symptoms may affect confidence, relationships and quality of life.

“A person may avoid long drives, movies or activities because they worry about finding a bathroom,” Dr. Higgins said. “Waking up multiple times at night can cause daytime fatigue. Urgency can make exercise, errands or social events stressful.” 

A urology evaluation usually starts with a conversation about a person’s symptoms and medical history. A doctor also may recommend a physical exam and tests to rule out other causes, such as infection, bladder problems or prostate cancer.

Evaluation may include a digital rectal exam, urine and blood tests, and, when needed, additional testing such as urinary flow measurement, post-void residual testing, ultrasound, cystoscopy or bladder function studies.

Treating BPH

Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms, prostate size, overall health and personal goals.

“If symptoms become bothersome or complications develop, we can consider minimally invasive procedures or surgery to remove or reduce extra prostate tissue and improve urine flow,” Dr. Higgins said.

Treatment options may include lifestyle changes, medications, minimally invasive procedures and surgery. Lifestyle strategies such as limiting evening fluids and reducing caffeine or alcohol can help manage symptoms. Medications may improve urine flow or shrink the prostate over time. For more severe symptoms, outpatient procedures or surgical treatments, including Aquablation, may be recommended.

Aquablation uses advanced imaging, robotic guidance and a heat-free, high-pressure waterjet to remove extra prostate tissue. During the procedure, the care team creates a personalized map of the prostate and uses it to precisely remove tissue obstructing urine flow. Aquablation is considered groundbreaking because it combines precision planning with heat-free tissue removal.

“In the past, traditional procedures often used heat, cutting or electrical energy,” Dr. Higgins said. “The waterjet approach of Aquablation helps surgeons remove the right amount of tissue.”

“If you have symptoms of BPH or other prostate-related concerns, don’t hesitate to seek care,” Dr. Higgins said. “Our team is here to help you reclaim your quality of life.”

About ThedaCare

For more than 115 years, ThedaCare® has been improving the health and well-being of the communities it serves in northeast and central Wisconsin. The organization delivers care to more than 650,000 residents in 17 counties, and employs approximately 7,000 providers and team members at 180 points of care, including 10 hospitals. As an organization committed to being a leader in Population Health, team members are dedicated to empowering people to live their unique, best lives. ThedaCare is a not-for-profit health system with a level II trauma center, comprehensive cancer treatment, stroke and cardiac programs, as well as primary care. ThedaCare also partners with communities to understand needs, find solutions together, and encourage health awareness and action. ThedaCare is part of Froedtert ThedaCare, Wisconsin’s most comprehensive healthcare system.

For more information, visit thedacare.org or follow ThedaCare on social media.

Date posted: September 10, 2026