Dinner downtown. A morning walk. An afternoon on the water. When urinary symptoms start shaping those plans, it may be time to ask about your options.
For men considering prostate artery embolization (PAE) in Sarasota, the question often goes beyond how a procedure works. What will treatment mean for your routine, your recovery and the activities you enjoy?
Dr. Justin Lee of Sarasota IR Associates discusses those practical concerns with men exploring treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), also called an enlarged prostate. PAE is one option for suitable patients whose urinary symptoms come from BPH.
Watch: PAE in Sarasota — Enlarged Prostate Treatment for Active Men
When bathroom breaks start shaping your plans
An enlarged prostate can contribute to frequent urination, a weak stream, difficulty starting and a feeling that your bladder has not fully emptied. Repeated nighttime bathroom trips can also interrupt sleep.
You might notice yourself checking bathroom locations before going out or thinking twice about a longer outing. Those changes are worth discussing with a clinician. Urinary symptoms can have several causes, so they do not establish that you have BPH or need PAE.
Why men consider PAE in Sarasota
Dr. Justin Lee hears from Sarasota men who want relief from urinary symptoms so they can spend less time planning around bathrooms and more time enjoying dinner out, a show or an afternoon on the water.
Some men he sees already take medication for BPH but want to discuss inadequate relief or side effects. Others have been offered a procedure and want to understand alternatives before deciding.
PAE treats the prostate through its blood supply. An interventional radiologist uses imaging to guide a small catheter into the arteries supplying the prostate, then delivers particles that reduce blood flow to targeted tissue. The prostate can gradually shrink, helping relieve obstruction in suitable patients.
The right choice depends on the cause and severity of your symptoms, your anatomy, medical history and previous treatment. Medication and other procedures may also be appropriate. Do not stop prescribed medication without speaking with your clinician. Learn more about BPH treatment options without surgery.
What outpatient PAE involves
At Sarasota IR Associates, Dr. Lee performs PAE in an outpatient setting. Patients generally return home the same day after a recovery period at the center.
The small arterial catheter used during treatment is different from a urinary catheter that drains the bladder. Many patients do not need a urinary catheter afterward, but some do. Ask what is likely in your particular situation, especially if you already use a catheter or have a history of urinary retention.
Outpatient treatment still requires preparation and recovery planning. Ask the team about transportation, medications and the support you may need at home.
What Is Recovery Like After PAE?
Returning to light daily activities is different from returning to golf, lifting weights, swimming or a full day of boating.
Temporary burning with urination and increased urinary frequency can occur during the first one to two weeks after PAE. Improvement develops gradually, so you may not notice relief immediately after the procedure.
Before treatment, describe the activities you want to resume. A short walk, a workout and a boat trip involve different demands. Follow the team’s specific instructions for exercise, lifting, driving, swimming and travel.
PAE has potential risks, including bleeding or bruising at the access site, infection, urinary retention and unintended effects on nearby tissue. Discuss the benefits, risks and alternatives during your consultation. Results and recovery vary.
What to ask at a PAE consultation in Sarasota
A consultation is a chance to understand your options before deciding on treatment. Useful questions include:
- Have we confirmed that BPH is causing my symptoms?
- Why might PAE be appropriate for me, and what are the alternatives?
- Will I likely need a urinary catheter?
- What symptoms should I expect during recovery, and when should I call?
- When can I return to my usual activities and travel?
- How will we measure improvement?
At Sarasota IR Associates, the team reviews symptoms, medical history, medications and available imaging. The team takes time to explain the findings, answer your questions and discuss your options. You can decide how you’d like to move forward without pressure to schedule a procedure.
Explore your enlarged-prostate treatment options
If you have BPH and urinary symptoms are interfering with your routine, learning about treatment options is a reasonable next step.
Read about prostate artery embolization at Sarasota IR Associates, or request a consultation to discuss your situation with the team.
Sarasota IR Associates is located at 2001 Siesta Drive, Suite 100, Sarasota. Call (941) 777-4723.