What is an Enlarged Prostate? An enlarged prostate, or Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), occurs when dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels rise. This noncancerous illness can cause urinary issues and discomfort, lowering a man’s quality of life. Prostate growth presses on the urethra, restricting urine flow and irritating the bladder. BPH is most common in males over 50, but diet, obesity, and inactivity may accelerate development. Urinary tract infections, bladder stones, and kidney damage can result if neglected. Understanding Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) or Enlarged Prostate Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a non-cancerous prostate gland enlargement that is frequently observed in men as they age. The urethra is surrounded by the prostate, which is a tiny gland that is placed below the bladder. The prostate is involved in the creation of more sperm. It is possible for it to squeeze the urethra as it grows, which might result in urinary problems. Common Symptoms of an Enlarged Prostate Frequent urination, especially at night Difficulty stopping or beginning the process of urinating Slow pee flow An incomplete emptying of the bladder Urination that is more urgent than usual How Diet Affects Prostate Health? Certain foods have the potential to worsen symptoms of prostate cancer, but a good diet can help reduce inflammation and protect urinary health. Role of Nutrition in Prostate Enlargement An important factor in controlling BPH symptoms is diet. While a balanced diet can promote prostate health and lessen difficulties, some foods might exacerbate inflammation and increase urinary discomfort How Certain Foods Worsen Symptoms? Certain foods might worsen the symptoms of BPH by increasing inflammation, causing fluid retention, or irritating the bladder. Avoid these foods to assist in improving urinary function and easing discomfort. Foods to Avoid with Enlarged Prostate To maintain prostate health, avoid foods that cause inflammation and aggravate symptoms. Red Meat and Processed Meat A lot of red and processed foods have been linked to inflammation and a higher chance of having problems with your prostate. These foods have chemicals and saturated fats that can make oxidative stress worse and make prostate enlargement worse. As an alternative, choose lean meats like chicken, fish, and nuts and legumes from plants. Dairy Products and High-Fat Foods  Saturated fats, which are found in dairy products such as whole milk, cheese, and butter, are known to cause inflammation and hormone imbalance, which may make the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) even more severe. As an alternative, choose Milk substitutes that are low in fat or derived from plants, such as almond milk, soy milk, or Greek yogurt. Caffeine and Alcohol Both caffeine and alcohol are in the category of diuretics, which means that they stimulate the production of urine and can make urinary urgency and frequency worse. The bladder can also be irritated by them, which can make the symptoms much more severe. As an alternative, reduce your use of liquids such as coffee, tea, and alcoholic beverages, and instead choose herbal teas or beverages that are decaffeinated on the other hand. Spicy and Acidic Foods Spicy foods, citrus fruits, and acidic foods have the potential to irritate the lining of the bladder, which can result in increased pain and a greater need to urinate earlier than usual. As an alternative, you might use mild seasonings such as herbs and fruits that do not include citrus, such as bananas, apples, and melons. Sugary and Artificially Sweetened Foods The consumption of excessive amounts of sugar and artificial sweeteners can lead to weight gain, inflammation, and insulin resistance, all of which may have an indirect impact on the health of the prostate. As an alternative, include selecting natural sweeteners such as honey or stevia, and putting more of an emphasis on entire meals that contain natural sugars, such as fruits. Excess Salt and Preservatives Consuming a lot of sodium can make you retain water and raise your blood pressure, which may make your prostate swell and cause urinary pain. As an alternative, eat less artificial foods and more fresh, whole foods that have been seasoned with natural herbs and spices. Prostate-Friendly Diet for Better Health Certain nutrients minimise prostate inflammation and boost prostatic function. Foods That Help Reduce Prostate Inflammation Consuming meals that are both anti-inflammatory and rich in nutrients can be beneficial to the health of the prostate: Tomatoes are an excellent source of lycopene, a potent antioxidant that is favourable to the health of the prostate. Catechins, which are found in green tea, are considered to have anti-inflammatory qualities. Inflammation can be reduced by eating fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines, which contain a high concentration of omega-3 fatty acids. Berries, specifically strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries, contain antioxidants that protect prostate cells. Broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts are examples of cruciferous vegetables that have been shown to eliminate toxins from the body and reduce inflammation. Best Drinks for Prostate Health   Water: Maintaining bladder health and eliminating toxins requires drinking enough water. Pomegranate Juice: Packed with antioxidants, pomegranate juice may help reduce the growth of the prostate. Herbal Teas: Green tea and chamomile can help reduce inflammation and calm the urinary tract.   Lifestyle Tips to Support Prostate Health When it comes to the health of the prostate, lifestyle behaviours are just as important as a balanced diet. Hydration and Exercise Hydration and exercise are essential for prostate health. Drinking adequate water flushes pollutants and maintains urinary health. Drinking less caffeine and alcohol can also help hydrate. Regular activity like walking, swimming, and strength training improves blood circulation, reduces inflammation, and helps maintain a healthy weight, which benefits prostate health. Kegels improve urine control by strengthening the bladder and prostate muscles. A healthy diet and exercise can minimise BPH symptoms and increase well-being. Importance of Regular Medical Checkups  Regular medical checks help spot prostate concerns early. Regular PSA and digital rectal exams are recommended for men over 40 and those with a family history of prostate problems. Early detection helps manage BPH and prevent problems. Personal nutrition and lifestyle advice

Kidney Stone Operation Cost – Treatment Options and Expenses in India Millions of individuals worldwide suffer from kidney stones. While Small stones can usually be flushed out of the body by pee, but bigger stones may need medical help, even surgery. Failure to treat kidney stones can result in renal damage, urinary tract infections, and excruciating agony. Kidney stones can be treated in both public and private institutions in India. The type of surgery, hospital location, and physician skill all affect the cost. This article goes into great depth about the different kinds of surgeries for kidney stones, how much they cost, and ways to lower those costs. What is a Kidney Stone? The minerals and salts in your body build up into a hard, solid mass called a kidney stone. The stones range in size from a golf ball to a grain of sand. When urine has a lot of chemicals like calcium, oxalate, and uric acid, which can crystallise and form solid masses, kidney stones form. → What Causes Kidney Stones and What Raise the Risk There are a number of things that can cause kidney stones: Dehydration: Not drinking enough water makes pee more concentrated, which raises the risk of kidney stones. Diet: Eating a lot of salt, oxalate-rich foods (like spinach, nuts, and tea), and animal protein can make you more likely to get kidney stones. Family History: Some people are more likely to get kidney stones because of their genes. Different Conditions in the body: Kidney stones can be caused by conditions like hyperparathyroidism, gout, obesity, and recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs). Some Medicines: Some medicines, like diuretics and calcium-based antacids, may make stones more likely to form.   → Symptoms of Kidney Stones The signs of kidney stones depend on how big they are and where they are in the urinary system. Some common signs are: Sharp pain in the lower back, side, or lower belly that can spread to the groin is called severe pain. Urine with blood in it can seem pink, red, or brown. Frequent Urination— The need to go to the toilet a lot of the time. Burning Sensation During Urination— It hurts to go to the toilet, especially if you have an infection in your urinary system. Feeling sick and throwing up—This is because of the severe pain that comes with having kidney stones. → When is Surgery Needed? Some kidney stones can be flushed out by pee, but surgery is needed when: The stone is too big (it’s over 5 mm across). The stone is causing constant pain that painkillers don’t seem to help. When urine flow is blocked, the kidneys swell up. This is called hydronephrosis. Because of the stone, the patient keeps getting urinary tract infections. Kidney function is at risk because of the long-term blockage. → Types of Kidney Stone Surgeries & Their Costs Surgery varies on stone size, location, and symptoms. The most common kidney stone removal surgeries are: → Lithotripsy (ESWL) – Non-Invasive Treatment Procedure: ESWL breaks kidney stones into urine-passable fragments with high-energy shock waves. No incisions are needed for this outpatient surgery. Best for: Stones under 2 cm. Patients who prefer non-surgical treatment. Advantages: Neither surgery nor hospitalisation needed. Short recovery. Disadvantages: Large stones may take numerous sessions. Fragments may move slowly, producing pain. Cost in India: ₹30,000-₹80,000 → Ureteroscopy (URS) – Endoscopic Removal Procedure: Lasers are used to find and remove or break stones through the urethra and bladder using a thin, flexible tube (ureteroscope). The procedure is done under general or spinal anaesthesia. Best for: Ureter or bladder stones. Patients that need precision stone removal. Advantages: Effective on small-to-medium stones. Immediate stone removal. Disadvantages: Needs anaesthesia. After operation, some bleeding or discomfort may occur. Cost in India: ₹50,000-1,20,000 → Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL) – For Large Stones Procedure: A nephroscope is inserted through a small back incision to break and remove big kidney stones. The surgery is minimally invasive and done under general anaesthesia. Best for: Big stones (>2 cm) that ESWL and URS cannot treat. Complex kidney stone patients. Advantages: Highly effective at removing big stones. Short hospital stay (2–3 days). Disadvantages: Needs a tiny cut. Possible bleeding or infection. Cost in India : ₹1,00,000 – ₹2,50,000. → Open Surgery – Rarely Used Today Procedure: Traditional kidney stone removal surgery with a bigger incision. Used only when other therapies fail or anatomical difficulties exist. Best for: Extra-large or complicated stones. People who cannot undergo minimally invasive procedures. Advantages: Effective for complex scenarios. Disadvantages: Extended hospitalisation and recovery. Higher infection and complication risk. Cost in India: ₹1,50,000-₹3,000,000 Kidney Stone Surgery Cost in India There are a number of factors that determine the cost of kidney stone surgery in India. These considerations include the type of procedure, the facility that is selected, the city in which the procedure is performed, and any other medical fees.  The cost of healthcare is drastically different between public and private hospitals. Private hospitals typically charge greater fees than public hospitals do because they have more modern medical technology, superior amenities, and more specialised medical professionals. → Factors Affecting the Cost India’s kidney stone surgery costs are determined by a number of factors, including the following: Compared to public hospitals, private hospitals typically have higher fees for their services. Because of its location, the costs are higher in metropolitan areas such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. Surgeons who have specialised skill typically demand higher prices than those who do not have such expertise. Depending on the kind and size of kidney stone, more expensive procedures are required for more complicated cases or larger stones. Diagnostic testing, drugs, hospital stays, and post-operative care are all additional expenses that contribute to the overall cost of the procedure. → Cost Breakdown for Different Surgeries In India, kidney stone surgery costs depend on the treatment, hospital location, and surgeon expertise.  ESWL, a non-invasive treatment using shock waves to break stones, is considered one of the most economical alternatives, costing