Expert: Dr. Man Tran, Ph.D, D.C., L.Ac. - 5/2/2007

Question
Dr. Tran,
I am 59 and have had a urinary catheter for more than a year since my first visit to the emergency room after being unable to urinate. I have used some of the typical mainstream medicines for prostate (the only tests I have
had are digital rectal and psa test). I had a great deal of trouble with my eyes after beginning the allopathic medicines. I have also taken a lot of saw palmetto. I have not been able to pass the flow test  to keep the catheter out. About 3 weeks ago I started taking some oriental
herbs. Woolly tea and pills and kit kat wan or something like that from the "golden book". I wish I had brought the bottles to the library so I could get the names exact. If these are not the best chinese herbs, do the Traditional Chinese medicines have a good track record with prostate? What about aruivedic from India? Have you ever heard of garlic enemas. Someone said that it was a common practice in Australia. I also have pains when ever I have gas or need to have a bowel movement. I have little money as I have recently been homeless and don't really trust the conventional medical establishment. Any suggestions or ideas?
  Thank you,
Kenneth  

Answer
Dear Kenneth,

I hope you are doing well at this moment.  I don't know much about the other method/remedies you mentioned except for traditional Chinese herbs.  There are raw herbs when prescribed work very well together to help the prostate.  These may cost quite a bit since the herbs are import from
China.  The pain you experienced could be due to the pressure build at the lower abdomen area as the prostate is enlarged with additional pressure upon it such as the gas build up or bowel movement creating a strain.  

I hope that help.