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Mtonga Isaac Pharmacy Zambia Ltd, Ng'ombe Township 16/24, Lusaka (2025)

16/12/2022

CIRRHOSIS (LIVER DAMAGE) AND TREATMENT

Cirrhosis is a late stage of scarring (fibrosis) of the liver caused by many forms of liver diseases and conditions, such as hepatitis and chronic alcohol abuse. The liver carries out several necessary functions, including detoxifying harmful substances in your body, cleaning your blood and making vital nutrients.

Cirrhosis occurs in response to damage to your liver. The liver damage done by cirrhosis can't be undone. But if liver cirrhosis is diagnosed early and the cause is treated, further damage can be limited. As cirrhosis progresses, more and more scar tissue forms, making it difficult for the liver to function (decompensated cirrhosis). Advanced cirrhosis is life-threatening.

SYMPTOMS

Cirrhosis often has no signs or symptoms until liver damage is extensive. When signs and symptoms do occur, they may include:

*Fatigue

*Bleeding easily

*Bruising easily

*Itchy skin

*Yellow discoloration in the skin and eyes (jaundice)

*Fluid accumulation in your abdomen (ascites)

*Loss of appetite

*Nausea

*Swelling in your legs

*Weight loss

*Confusion, drowsiness and slurred speech (hepatic encephalopathy)

*Spider-like blood vessels on your skin

When to see a doctor?

Make an appointment with your doctor if you have persistent signs or symptoms of cirrhosis.

CAUSES

Cirrhosis is caused by scar tissue that forms in your liver in response to damage occurring over many years. Each time your liver is injured, it tries to repair itself. In the process, scar tissue forms. As the scar tissue builds up, liver function worsens. In advanced cirrhosis, the liver no longer works very well.

It's important to determine the cause of cirrhosis because treating that underlying cause can help prevent further liver damage. A wide range of diseases and conditions can damage the liver and lead to cirrhosis.

Some of the causes of cirrhosis are inherited or thought to be inherited:

*Iron buildup in the body (hemochromatosis)

*Cystic fibrosis

*Copper accumulated in the liver (Wilson's disease)

*Poorly formed bile ducts (biliary atresia)

*Inherited disorders of sugar metabolism (galactosemia or glycogen storage disease)

*Genetic digestive disorder (Alagille syndrome)

*Liver disease caused by your body's immune system (autoimmune hepatitis)

Others occur later in life:

*Chronic alcohol abuse

*Hepatitis CHepatitis B

*Fat accumulating in the liver (nonalcoholic fatty liver disease)

*Destruction of the bile ducts (primary biliary cirrhosis)

*Hardening and scarring of the bile ducts (primary sclerosing cholangitis)

*Infection by a parasite common in developing countries (schistosomiasis)

Some people may have more than one cause for cirrhosis, such as alcohol abuse and viral hepatitis. If doctors cannot find a cause for your condition, it's called cryptogenic cirrhosis. Up to 20 percent of people with cirrhosis have cryptogenic cirrhosis.

COMPLICATIONS

Complications of cirrhosis can include:

Complications related to blood flow:

*High blood pressure in the veins that supply the liver (portal hypertension). Cirrhosis slows the normal flow of blood through the liver, thus increasing pressure in the vein that brings blood from the intestines and spleen to the liver.

*Swelling in the legs and abdomen. Portal hypertension can cause fluid to accumulate in the legs (edema) and in the abdomen (ascites). Edema and ascites also may result from the inability of the liver to make enough of certain blood proteins, such as albumin.

*Enlargement of the spleen (splenomegaly). Portal hypertension can also cause changes to the spleen. Decreased white blood cells and platelets in your blood can be the first sign of cirrhosis.

*Bleeding. Portal hypertension can cause blood to be redirected to smaller veins. Strained by the extra load, these smaller veins can burst, causing serious bleeding. High blood pressure also may cause enlarged veins (varices) and lead to life-threatening bleeding in the esophagus (esophageal varices) or the stomach (gastric varices). If the liver can't make enough clotting factors, this also can contribute to continued bleeding.

Other complications:

*Infections. If you have cirrhosis, your body may have difficulty fighting infections. Ascites can lead to bacterial peritonitis, a serious infection.

*Malnutrition. Cirrhosis may make it more difficult for your body to process nutrients, leading to weakness and weight loss.

*Buildup of toxins in the brain (hepatic encephalopathy). A liver damaged by cirrhosis isn't able to clear toxins from the blood as well as a healthy liver can. These toxins can then build up in the brain and cause mental confusion and difficulty concentrating. With time, hepatic encephalopathy can progress to unresponsiveness or coma.

*Jaundice. Jaundice occurs when the diseased liver doesn't remove enough bilirubin, a blood waste product, from your blood. Jaundice causes yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes and darkening of urine.

*Bone disease. Some people with cirrhosis lose bone strength and are at greater risk of fractures.

*Gallstones and bile duct stones.Blocked flow of bile can lead to irritation, infection and the creation of stones.

*Increased risk of liver cancer.

*Acute-on-chronic cirrhosis. Some people end up experiencing multiorgan failure. Researchers now believe this is a distinct complication in some people who have cirrhosis, but they don't fully understand its causes.

PREPARING FOR YOUR APPOINTMENT

If you have cirrhosis, you may be referred to a doctor who specializes in the digestive system (gastroenterologist) or the liver (hepatologist).

Here's some information to help you get ready for your appointment and what to expect from your doctor.

TESTS AND DIAGNOSIS

People with early-stage cirrhosis of the liver usually don't have symptoms. Often, cirrhosis is first detected through a routine blood test or checkup. Your doctor may order one or more tests or procedures to diagnose cirrhosis.

Laboratory tests:

*Liver function. Your blood is checked for excess bilirubin and certain enzymes that may indicate liver damage.

*Kidney function. Your blood is checked for creatinine.

*Tests for hepatitis B and C. Your blood is checked for the hepatitis viruses.

*Clotting. Your international normalized ratio (INR) is checked for your blood's ability to clot.

Imaging and other tests:

*Magnetic resonance elastography (MRE). This noninvasive advanced imaging testdetects hardening or stiffening of the liver.

*Other imaging tests. MRI, CT and ultrasound can image the liver.

*Biopsy. A tissue sample (biopsy) is not necessarily needed for diagnosis. However, your doctor may use it to identify the severity, extent and cause of liver damage.

If you have cirrhosis, your doctor is likely to recommend regular diagnostic tests to monitor for signs of disease progression or complications, especially esophageal varices and liver cancer. Noninvasive tests are becoming more widely available for monitoring.

TREATMENTS

Treatment for cirrhosis depends on the cause and extent of your liver damage. The goals of treatment are to slow the progression of scar tissue in the liver and to prevent or treat symptoms and complications of cirrhosis. You may need to be hospitalized if you have severe liver damage.

Treatment for the underlying cause of cirrhosis

In early cirrhosis, it may be possible to minimize damage to the liver by treating the underlying cause. The options include:

*Treatment for alcohol dependency. People with cirrhosis caused by alcohol abuse should try to stop drinking. If stopping alcohol use is difficult, your doctor may recommend a treatment program for alcohol addiction.

*Weight loss. People with cirrhosis caused by nonalcoholic fatty liver disease may become healthier if they lose weight and control their blood sugar levels.

*Medications to control hepatitis.Medications may control damage to liver cells caused by hepatitis B or C.

*Medications to control other causes and symptoms of cirrhosis. Medications may slow the progression of certain types of liver cirrhosis. For example, people with primary biliary cirrhosis that is diagnosed and treated early may never experience symptoms.

Other medications can relieve certain symptoms, such as itching, fatigue and pain. Nutritional supplements may be prescribed to counter malnutrition associated with cirrhosis and to prevent osteoporosis (weak bones).

Treatment for complications of cirrhosis

Your doctor will work to treat any complications of cirrhosis, including:

*Excess fluid in your body. Edema or ascites may be managed with a low-sodium diet and medication to prevent fluid buildup in the body. More severe fluid buildup may require procedures to drain the fluid or surgery to relieve pressure.

*Portal hypertension. Blood pressure medications may control increased pressure in the veins that supply the liver (portal hypertension) and prevent severe bleeding. Your doctor will perform an upper endoscopy at regular intervals to look for enlarged veins in the esophagus or stomach (varices) that may bleed.

If you develop varices, you likely will need medication to reduce the risk of bleeding. If you are not able to tolerate medication and have signs that the varices are bleeding or are likely to bleed, you may need a procedure (band ligation) to stop the bleeding. In severe cases, you may need a small tube — a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) — placed in your vein to reduce blood pressure in your liver.

*Infections. You may receive antibiotics or other treatments for infections. Your doctor also is likely to recommend vaccinations for influenza, pneumonia and hepatitis.

*Increased liver cancer risk. Your doctor will likely recommend periodic blood tests and ultrasound exams to look for signs of liver cancer.

*Hepatic encephalopathy. You may be prescribed medications to help reduce the buildup of toxins in your blood due to poor liver function.

Liver transplant surgery

In advanced cases of cirrhosis, when the liver ceases to function, a liver transplant may be the only treatment option. A liver transplant is a procedure to replace your liver with a healthy liver from a deceased donor or with part of a liver from a living donor. Cirrhosis is the most common reason for a liver transplant.

Extensive testing is needed before a liver transplant to ensure that a candidate is in good enough health to have the transplant operation. Additionally, transplant centers typically require some period of abstinence from alcohol, often at least six months, before transplantation for people with alcohol-related liver disease.

LIFESTYLE AND HOME REMEDIES

Reduce your risk of cirrhosis by taking care of your liver:

*Drink alcohol in moderation, if at all. If you choose to drink alcohol and don't have liver disease or cirrhosis, do so in moderation. For healthy adults, that means up to one drink a day for women of all ages and men over age 65, and up to two drinks a day for men age 65 and younger.

*Eat a healthy diet. Choose a plant-based diet that's full of fruits and vegetables. Select whole grains and lean sources of protein. Reduce the amount of fatty and fried foods you eat.

*Maintain a healthy weight. An excess amount of body fat can damage your liver. Talk to your doctor about a weight-loss plan if you are obese or overweight.

*Reduce your risk of hepatitis. Sharing needles and having unprotected s*x can increase your risk of hepatitis B and C. Ask your doctor about hepatitis vaccinations.

If you're concerned about your risk of liver cirrhosis, talk to your doctor about ways you can reduce your risk.
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Mtonga Isaac Pharmacy,
Ng'ombe Township,
#16/24 Off Zambezi road,
Email: mtongaisaacpharmacy@gmail.com,
Tel: +260974272433/+260966399444,
Lusaka, Zambia.

07/12/2022

BWANJI ABWEZI? KODI MWADYA CIANI LERO? TISAMADYA VILIVONSE TIZISANKHA ZAKUDYA, ZINA ZIMAONONGA THUPI.

23/11/2022

BY FAITH YOU CAN DO GREAT THINGS

Psalms 139:13-16

For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.

My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them.

John 11:40

Then Jesus said, “Did I not tell you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?.

Mark 10:52

“Go,” said Jesus, “your faith has healed you.” Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus along the road.

Hebrews 11:4-31

[4]By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh.

[5]By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God.

[7]By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.

[8]By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went.

[11]Through faith also Sara herself received strength to conceive seed, and was delivered of a child when she was past age, because she judged him faithful who had promised.

[17]By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac: and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten son,

[20]By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau concerning things to come.

[23]By faith Moses, when he was born, was hid three months of his parents, because they saw he was a proper child; and they were not afraid of the king's commandment.

[29]By faith they passed through the Red sea as by dry land: which the Egyptians assaying to do were drowned.

[30]By faith the walls of Jericho fell down, after they were compassed about seven days.

[31]By faith the harlot Rahab perished not with them that believed not, when she had received the spies with peace.
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Contact us:

Mtonga Isaac Pharmacy,
Ng'ombe Township,
#16/24 Off Zambezi road,
Email: mtongaisaacpharmacy@gmail.com,
Tel: +260974272433/+260966399444,
Lusaka, Zambia

22/11/2022

PSEUDOCYESIS (FALSE PREGNANCY) AND TREATMENT

Pseudocyesis, or false pregnancy, is when a person believes they are pregnant while not. It’s also called a phantom pregnancy. With pseudocyesis, a person has pregnancy symptoms and feels pregnant.

However, pregnancy tests and ultrasounds confirm they aren’t physically pregnant, and no fetus is growing in their uterus. It’s a rare condition, and healthcare providers believe psychological and hormonal factors play a role in causing it.

What's the difference between pseudocyesis and a real pregnancy?

The biggest difference between false pregnancy and a real pregnancy is the presence of a fetus. A person with pseudocyesis may feel pregnant and have signs of pregnancy, but a pregnancy test, blood test or ultrasound will show they aren’t pregnant.

SYMPTOMS

The symptoms of pseudocyesis are similar to actual pregnancy because a person believes they are pregnant or has a condition causing pregnancy symptoms.
For example, some people will report feeling movement in their uterus.

Other common symptoms of false pregnancy are:

*Breast tenderness

*Enlarged abdomen

*Missed menstrual period

*Weight gain

*Nausea or morning sickness

*Food cravings or aversions

*False labor contractions.

CAUSES:

Medical experts aren’t entirely sure what causes pseudocyesis but think that psychological and hormonal factors may contribute. It may be considered a somatic symptom disorder or when a person has physical symptoms of a condition without any medical explanation.

Some of the reasons a person may develop pseudocyesis are:

*Strong desire to become pregnant

*Multiple miscarriages

*Loss of a child

*Infertility

*Extreme fear of becoming pregnant

*Depression or anxiety

*Emotional trauma

*Sexual abuse.

Psychological factors of false pregnancy

The mind-body connection can be powerful. Some healthcare providers believe the desire to become pregnant is the most common cause of pseudocyesis. People may have such a strong desire to be pregnant that their body helps them believe they are pregnant. Other conditions such as depression from infertility or miscarriage can be a risk factor for false pregnancy.

Hormonal factors of false pregnancy

Medical conditions like uterine tumors, menopause or cancer can cause changes in a person’s hormone levels. These hormonal changes can mimic pregnancy symptoms like missed periods, fatigue or weight gain. Healthcare providers may want to rule out these medical conditions before diagnosing pseudocyesis. A strong desire to become pregnant may impact hormones directly and cause pregnancy symptoms.

DIAGNOSIS AND TESTS

Healthcare providers will perform a pelvic exam, ultrasound, urine test or blood test to check for pregnancy. If a false pregnancy has occurred, these tests will come back negative and confirm that conception did not occur and the person isn’t pregnant.

People with this condition will likely be upset, disappointed and in disbelief that there’s no fetus. An ultrasound may be the best option for convincing a person with pseudocyesis that they aren’t pregnant because it’s the most visual diagnostic test for pregnancy.

Some health conditions have the same symptoms as pregnancy. For example, a rare form of cancer can secrete pregnancy hormones. Healthcare providers may perform additional tests to rule out health conditions that may be the cause of pregnancy symptoms.

Can you get a positive pregnancy test with pseudocyesis?

No, you won’t get a positive pregnancy test. At-home pregnancy tests check for the hormone HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin). Cells from the placenta produce HCG only during pregnancy. Ultrasound and urine tests will also confirm no fetus is growing in your body.

MANAGEMENT AND TREATMENT

The first step in treatment is convincing a person they aren’t pregnant. It’s helpful to show the person that no fetus is growing inside their body using ultrasound or other imaging tools.

Healthcare providers will also need to treat the medical conditions causing pregnancy symptoms. For example, using hormone therapy to help the person get their menstrual period.

Pseudocyesis is typically treated as a psychological condition. Treating pseudocyesis involves emotional support, behavioral therapy and help from a therapist or counselor. Identifying factors that led to false pregnancy and coping with those factors is essential to healing.

How can I help someone with pseudocyesis?

People with pseudocyesis need a compassionate support system. Chances are your loved one would benefit from talking through their feelings. They are mourning the loss of a pregnancy and dealing with many emotions — anger, sadness, grief or trauma. Being there for your friend or partner and showing you care will go a long way in their healing.

Is pseudocyesis a delusion?

No, pseudocyesis isn’t a delusion. People diagnosed with the delusion of pregnancy don’t have pregnancy symptoms but believe they are pregnant. People with pseudocyesis have symptoms of a real pregnancy. Healthcare providers treat these conditions differently.

How long does someone have pseudocyesis?

Some people have symptoms of false pregnancy for up to nine months (the length of a typical pregnancy), while others have symptoms for only a few weeks or months.

How do I take care of myself?

Be gentle with yourself. It may be painful to accept that you aren’t pregnant, but don’t feel embarrassed or ashamed that you believed you were. Your healthcare providers, friends and family can help support you through this time. Be open about what you are feeling and seek counseling with a therapist if more help is needed.
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Contact us:

Mtonga Isaac Pharmacy,
Ng'ombe Township,
#16/24 Off Zambezi road,
Email: mtongaisaacpharmacy@gmail.com,
Tel: +260974272433/+260966399444,
Lusaka, Zambia.

19/11/2022

GOD DOES NOT PROHIBIT YOU FROM USING HERBAL MEDICINES

God does not prohibit you from using Natural Herbal Medicines. Almost every Medicine is made from God's vegetation. Some religions discourage their members from using Herbal Medicines, they don't even have an idea where Medicines that are found in Hospitals or Clinics came from. They continue condemning Herbal Medicines because they believe that Herbal Medicines are from Demons, especially Black people (Africans).

Do you not know that it's only Technology that changes the appearance or design of Medicines?

Most Africans believe that everything, every smile or word spoken by White people is perfect. And everything made by Africans is not perfect. We Africans we don't even know that White people are using the same things we ignore here in Africa because of our Ignorance. This shows that Africa will remain a Dark Continent (Poor Continent) till Jesus Christ comes.

Remember, those people who stop you from taking medicine are not your friends, they are crook murderers, turn away from them, they have heart of witchcraft.

After spending so many years without getting healed, so many years without conceiving, then today they tell you not to use Herbal Medicines from Herbalist (Herbal Doctor), they only encourage you to keep attending Prayer services; this is mind of killing not healing.

You must use Medicines as you are praying. With prayer only, you can't harvest without planting, you can't pass exams without studying, that's a mind of failure.

Without Herbal Medicines, some people would have died long time ago. Long time ago our parents were using Herbal Medicines; there were no Hospitals or Clinics, then today you are told it is sin to use Herbal Medicines! Turn away from Killers. God forbid. Please Become wise.

Hosea 4:6
My people are perished for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee....

Ezekiel 47:12
And by the river upon the bank thereof, on this side and on that side, shall grow all trees for meat, whose leaf shall not fade, neither shall the fruit thereof be consumed: it shall bring forth new fruit according to his months, because their waters they issued out of the sanctuary: and the fruit thereof shall be for meat, and the leaf thereof for medicine.

Revelation 22:2
In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations.

Good News Translation Sirach 38:1-2,4-9,12-15

Give doctors the honor they deserve, for the Lord gave them their work to do. Their skill came from the Most High, and kings reward them for it. The Lord created medicines from the earth, and a sensible person will not hesitate to use them.

Didn't a tree once make bitter water fit to drink, so that the Lord's power might be known?

He gave medical knowledge to human beings, so that we would praise him for the miracles he performs.

The druggist mixes these medicines, and the doctor will use them to cure diseases and ease pain. There is no end to the activities of the Lord, who gives health to the people of the world.

My child, when you get sick, don't ignore it. Pray to the Lord, and he will make you well. Then call the doctor—for the Lord created him—and keep him at your side; you need him.

There are times when you have to depend on his skill. The doctor's prayer is that the Lord will make him able to ease his patients' pain and make them well again. As for the person who sins against his Creator, he deserves to be sick.
________________________________________________

Contact us:

Mtonga Isaac Pharmacy,
Ng'ombe Township,
#16/24 Off Zambezi road,
Email: mtongaisaacpharmacy@gmail.com,
Tel: +260974272433/+260966399444,
Lusaka, Zambia.

17/11/2022

Children Fighters by Elisha Mbewe Live Video in Chipata compound Lusaka, Zambia.

16/11/2022

BENIGN PROSTATIC HYPERPLASIA AND TREATMENT

Prostate gland enlargement is a common condition as men get older. Also called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostate gland enlargement can cause bothersome urinary symptoms. Untreated, prostate gland enlargement can block the flow of urine out of the bladder and cause bladder, urinary tract or kidney problems.

There are several effective treatments for prostate gland enlargement, including medications, minimally invasive therapies and surgery. To choose the best option, you and your doctor will consider your symptoms, the size of your prostate, other health conditions you might have and your preferences.

SYMPTOMS

The severity of symptoms in people who have prostate gland enlargement varies, but symptoms tend to gradually worsen over time. Common signs and symptoms of BPH include:

*Frequent or urgent need to urinate

*Increased frequency of urination at night (nocturia)

*Difficulty starting urination

*Weak urine stream or a stream that stops and starts

*Dribbling at the end of urination

*Straining while urinating

*Inability to completely empty the bladder

Less common signs and symptoms include:

*Urinary tract infection

*Inability to urinate

*Blood in the urine

The size of your prostate doesn't necessarily mean your symptoms will be worse. Some men with only slightly enlarged prostates can have significant symptoms, while other men with very enlarged prostates can have only minor urinary symptoms.

In some men, symptoms eventually stabilize and might even improve over time.

Other possible causes of urinary symptoms

Conditions that can lead to symptoms similar to those caused by enlarged prostate include:

*Urinary tract infection

*Inflammation of the prostate (prostatitis)

*Narrowing of the urethra (urethral stricture)

*Scarring in the bladder neck as a result of previous surgery

*Bladder or kidney stones

*Problems with nerves that control the bladder

*Cancer of the prostate or bladder

When to see a doctor?

If you're having urinary problems, discuss them with your doctor. Even if you don't find urinary symptoms bothersome, it's important to identify or rule out any underlying causes. Untreated, urinary problems might lead to obstruction of the urinary tract.

If you're unable to pass any urine, seek immediate medical attention.

CAUSES

The prostate gland is located beneath your bladder. The tube that transports urine from the bladder out of your p***s (urethra) passes through the center of the prostate. When the prostate enlarges, it begins to block urine flow.

Most men have continued prostate growth throughout life. In many men, this continued growth enlarges the prostate enough to cause urinary symptoms or to significantly block urine flow.

It isn't entirely clear what causes the prostate to enlarge. However, it might be due to changes in the balance of s*x hormones as men grow older.

RISK FACTORS

Risk factors for prostate gland enlargement include:

*Aging. Prostate gland enlargement rarely causes signs and symptoms in men younger than age 40. About one-third of men experience moderate to severe symptoms by age 60, and about half do so by age 80.

*Family history. Having a blood relative, such as a father or brother, with prostate problems means you're more likely to have problems.

*Ethnic background. Prostate enlargement is less common in Asian men than in white and black men. Black men might experience symptoms at a younger age than white men.

*Diabetes and heart disease. Studies show that diabetes, as well as heart disease and use of beta blockers, might increase the risk of BPH.

*Lifestyle. Obesity increases the risk of BPH, while exercise can lower your risk.

COMPLICATIONS

Complications of enlarged prostate can include:

*Sudden inability to urinate (urinary retention). You might need to have a tube (catheter) inserted into your bladder to drain the urine. Some men with an enlarged prostate need surgery to relieve urinary retention.

*Urinary tract infections (UTIs). Inability to fully empty the bladder can increase the risk of infection in your urinary tract. If UTIs occur frequently, you might need surgery to remove part of the prostate.

*Bladder stones. These are generally caused by an inability to completely empty the bladder. Bladder stones can cause infection, bladder irritation, blood in the urine and obstruction of urine flow.

*Bladder damage. A bladder that hasn't emptied completely can stretch and weaken over time. As a result, the muscular wall of the bladder no longer contracts properly, making it harder to fully empty your bladder.

*Kidney damage. Pressure in the bladder from urinary retention can directly damage the kidneys or allow bladder infections to reach the kidneys.

Most men with an enlarged prostate don't develop these complications. However, acute urinary retention and kidney damage can be serious health threats.

Having an enlarged prostate doesn't affect your risk of developing prostate cancer.

PREPARING FOR YOUR APPOINTMENT

You might be referred directly to a doctor who specializes in urinary issues (urologist).

TESTS AND DIAGNOSIS

Your doctor will start by asking detailed questions about your symptoms and doing a physical exam. This initial exam is likely to include:

*Digital re**al exam. The doctor inserts a finger into the re**um to check your prostate for enlargement.

*Urine test. Analyzing a sample of your urine can help rule out an infection or other conditions that can cause similar symptoms.

*Blood test. The results can indicate kidney problems.

*Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test. PSA is a substance produced in your prostate. PSA levels increase when you have an enlarged prostate. However, elevated PSA levels can also be due to recent procedures, infection, surgery or prostate cancer.

*Neurological exam. This brief evaluation of your mental functioning and nervous system can help identify causes of urinary problems other than enlarged prostate.

After that, your doctor might recommend additional tests to help confirm an enlarged prostate and to rule out other conditions.

These additional tests might include:

*Urinary flow test. You urinate into a receptacle attached to a machine that measures the strength and amount of your urine flow. Test results help determine over time if your condition is getting better or worse.

*Postvoid residual volume test. This test measures whether you can empty your bladder completely. The test can be done using ultrasound or by inserting a catheter into your bladder after you urinate to measure how much urine is left in your bladder.

*24-hour voiding diary. Recording the frequency and amount of urine might be especially helpful if more than one-third of your daily urinary output occurs at night.

If your condition is more complex, your doctor may recommend:

*Transre**al ultrasound. An ultrasound probe is inserted into your re**um to measure and evaluate your prostate.

*Prostate biopsy. Transre**al ultrasound guides needles used to take tissue samples (biopsies) of the prostate. Examining the tissue can help your doctor diagnose or rule out prostate cancer.

*Urodynamic and pressure flow studies.A catheter is threaded through your urethra into your bladder. Water — or, less commonly, air — is slowly injected into your bladder. Your doctor can then measure bladder pressure and determine how well your bladder muscles are working.

*Cystoscopy. A lighted, flexible cystoscope is inserted into your urethra, allowing your doctor to see inside your urethra and bladder. You will be given a local anesthetic before this test.

*Intravenous pyelogram or CT urogram.A tracer is injected into a vein. X-rays or CT scans are then taken of your kidneys, bladder and the tubes that connect your kidneys to your bladder (ureters). These tests can help detect urinary tract stones, tumors or blockages above the bladder.

TREATMENTS AND DRUGS

A wide variety of treatments are available for enlarged prostate, including medication, minimally invasive therapies and surgery. The best treatment choice for you depends on several factors, including:

*The size of your prostate

*Your age

*Your overall health

*The amount of discomfort or bother you are experiencing

If your symptoms are tolerable, you might decide to postpone treatment and simply monitor your symptoms. For some men, symptoms can ease without treatment.

Medication

Medication is the most common treatment for mild to moderate symptoms of prostate enlargement. The options include:

Alpha blockers. These medications relax bladder neck muscles and muscle fibers in the prostate, making urination easier. They usually work quickly in men with relatively small prostates.

*5-alpha reductase inhibitors. These medications shrink your prostate by preventing hormonal changes that cause prostate growth. These medications might take up to six months to be effective.

*Combination drug therapy. Your doctor might recommend taking an alpha blocker and a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor at the same time if either medication alone isn't effective.

*Tadalafil (Cialis). Studies suggest this medication, which is often used to treat erectile dysfunction, can also treat prostate enlargement. However, this medication is not routinely used for BPH and is generally prescribed only to men who also experience erectile dysfunction.

Minimally invasive or surgical therapy

Minimally invasive or surgical therapy might be recommended if:

*Your symptoms are moderate to severe

*Medication hasn't relieved your symptoms

*You have a urinary tract obstruction, bladder stones, blood in your urine or kidney problems

*You prefer definitive treatment

Minimally invasive or surgical therapy might not be an option if you have:

*An untreated urinary tract infection

*Urethral stricture disease

*A history of prostate radiation therapy or urinary tract surgery

*A neurological disorder, such as Parkinson's disease or multiple sclerosis

Any type of prostate procedure can cause side effects. Depending on the procedure you choose, complications might include:

*Semen flowing backward into the bladder instead of out through the p***s during ej*******on

*Temporary difficulty with urination

*Urinary tract infection

*Bleeding

*Erectile dysfunctionVery rarely, loss of bladder control (incontinence)

There are several types of minimally invasive or surgical therapy.

Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP)

A lighted scope is inserted into your urethra, and the surgeon removes all but the outer part of the prostate. TURP generally relieves symptoms quickly, and most men have a stronger urine flow soon after the procedure.

After TURP you might temporarily need a catheter to drain your bladder, and you'll be able to do only light activity until you've healed.

Transurethral incision of the prostate (TUIP)

A lighted scope is inserted into your urethra, and the surgeon makes one or two small cuts in the prostate gland — making it easier for urine to pass through the urethra.

This surgery might be an option if you have a small or moderately enlarged prostate gland, especially if you have health problems that make other surgeries too risky.

Transurethral microwave thermotherapy (TUMT)

Your doctor inserts a special electrode through your urethra into your prostate area. Microwave energy from the electrode destroys the inner portion of the enlarged prostate gland, shrinking it and easing urine flow.

This surgery is generally used only on small prostates in special circumstances because re-treatment might be necessary.

Transurethral needle ablation (TUNA)

In this outpatient procedure, a scope is passed into your urethra, allowing your doctor to place needles into your prostate gland. Radio waves pass through the needles, heating and destroying excess prostate tissue that's blocking urine flow.

This procedure might be a good choice if you bleed easily or have certain other health problems. However, like TUMT, TUNA might only partially relieve your symptoms and it might take some time before you notice results.

Laser therapy

A high-energy laser destroys or removes overgrown prostate tissue. Laser therapy generally relieves symptoms right away and has a lower risk of side effects than does nonlaser surgery.

Laser therapy might be used in men who shouldn't have other prostate procedures because they take blood-thinning medications.

The options for laser therapy include:

*Ablative procedures. These procedures vaporize obstructive prostate tissue to increase urine flow. Examples include photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP) and holmium laser ablation of the prostate (HoLAP). Ablative procedures can cause irritating urinary symptoms after surgery, so in rare situations another resection procedure might be needed at some point.

*Enucleative procedures. Enucleative procedures, such as holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP), generally remove all the prostate tissue blocking urine flow and prevent regrowth of tissue. The removed tissue can be examined for prostate cancer and other conditions. These procedures are similar to open prostatectomy.

Prostate lift

In this experimental transurethral procedure, special tags are used to compress the sides of the prostate to increase the flow of urine. Long-term data on the effectiveness of this procedure aren't available.

Embolization

In this experimental procedure, the blood supply to or from the prostate is selectively blocked, causing the prostate to decrease in size. Long-term data on the effectiveness of this procedure aren't available.

Open or robot-assisted prostatectomy

The surgeon makes an incision in your lower abdomen to reach the prostate and remove tissue. Open prostatectomy is generally done if you have a very large prostate, bladder damage or other complicating factors. The surgery usually requires a short hospital stay and is associated with a higher risk of needing a blood transfusion.

Follow-up care

Your follow-up care will depend on the specific technique used to treat your enlarged prostate.

Your doctor might recommend limiting heavy lifting and excessive exercise for seven days if you have laser ablation, transurethral needle ablation or transurethral microwave therapy. If you have open or robot-assisted prostatectomy, you might need to restrict activity for six weeks.

Whichever procedure you have, your doctor likely will suggest that you drink plenty of fluids afterward.

LIFESTYLE AND HOME REMEDIES

To help control the symptoms of an enlarged prostate, try to:

*Limit beverages in the evening. Don't drink anything for an hour or two before bedtime to avoid middle-of-the-night trips to the toilet.

*Limit caffeine and alcohol. They can increase urine production, irritate the bladder and worsen symptoms.

*Limit decongestants or antihistamines.These drugs tighten the band of muscles around the urethra that control urine flow, making it harder to urinate.

*Go when you first feel the urge.Waiting too long might overstretch the bladder muscle and cause damage.

*Schedule bathroom visits. Try to urinate at regular times — such as every four to six hours during the day — to "retrain" the bladder. This can be especially useful if you have severe frequency and urgency.

*Follow a healthy diet. Obesity is associated with enlarged prostate.

*Stay active. Inactivity contributes to urine retention. Even a small amount of exercise can help reduce urinary problems caused by an enlarged prostate.

*Urinate — and then urinate again a few moments later. This practice is known as double voiding.

*Keep warm. Colder temperatures can cause urine retention and increase the urgency to urinate.

ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE

The Food and Drug Administration hasn't approved any herbal medications for treatment of an enlarged prostate.

If you take any herbal remedies, tell your doctor. Certain herbal products might increase the risk of bleeding or interfere with other medications you're taking.
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Contact us:

Mtonga Isaac Pharmacy,
Ng'ombe Township,
#16/24 Off Zambezi road,
Email: mtongaisaacpharmacy@gmail.com,
Tel: +260974272433/+260966399444,
Lusaka, Zambia.

Mtonga Isaac Pharmacy Zambia Ltd

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