Highlights: 

• What is the prostate gland? 
• The most common diseases of the prostate. 
• 5 Prostate Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore 
• Prostate cancer prevention and screening. 

prostate problems

Prostate health is an important but often overlooked part of men’s health even though it plays a crucial role in the male reproductive function. Prostate problems often cause discomfort and inconvenience, and sometimes can even lead to serious health complications if left untreated. 

As we age, the risk of prostate problems increases significantly. By age 60, half of all men have an enlarged prostate, a condition also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia , or BPH. By the age of 85, the share reaches 90%.  

In this article, we highlight five signals that men should never ignore when it comes to their prostate health. These symptoms serve as important warning signs in the gland and should encourage you to react quickly and adequately to prevent further complications. 

prostate problems

What is the prostate gland? 

The prostate gland is a small, walnut-shaped organ located just below the bladder. This walnut-sized gland is important for producing the fluid that allows sperm to move. The prostate is responsible for closing the urethra during ejaculation. It also works to convert testosterone into dihydrotestosterone. This not only helps regulate the prostate, but is essential for the production of facial hair!  

prostate problems

The most common diseases of the prostate 

There are three common problems that affect the prostate: 

Prostatitis 

It is the most common prostate condition in men under the age of 50 and usually refers to inflammation or infection of the prostate gland. Typical symptoms are pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen, painful urination, fever and sexual dysfunction. Prostatitis becomes acute or chronic if the inflammation lasts more than three months. 

prostate problems

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) 

BPH, also known as an enlarged prostate gland, is the most common non-cancerous condition in men over 50. As the gland enlarges, it can press on the urethra, leading to difficulty urinating, frequent urination, a weak stream of urine, and incomplete emptying of the bladder. 

Prostate carcinoma 

Is the most common form of cancer in men, affecting one in nine. This type of carcinoma often develops slowly and may not cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages. However, some forms of prostate cancer are more aggressive and deadly, so it’s important to get regular checkups to catch it early. 

5 Signals You Shouldn’t Ignore 

prostate problems

The diseases listed above often present with similar symptoms, which include: 

1. Urinary symptoms 

Urinary symptoms that suggest prostate problems are: 

• Frequent urination, especially at night. 
• Difficulty starting or maintaining a stream of urine. 
• Weak stream of urine. 

2. Pain 

Prostate problems can present with pain when urinating or discomfort in various areas, including the pelvic area, lower back or genitals. 

• Pelvic pain: Discomfort or painful sensations in the pelvic area, often located around the base of the penis or in the area between the scrotum and anus. 
• Lower back pain: A dull or throbbing pain in the lower back, sometimes radiating to the thighs, can be indicative of prostate problems. 
• Genital discomfort: Pain or tenderness in the testicles, penis, or groin area, which may be associated with conditions such as prostatitis or urinary tract infections. 

3. Changes in sexual function 

Prostate problems can significantly affect sexual function in men. 

• Erectile dysfunction: Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse is a common symptom of various prostate diseases, including BPH, prostatitis, and prostate cancer. 
• Decreased libido: Men with prostate problems may experience a decrease in sexual desire or interest (libido). 
• Ejaculation problems: Premature, delayed or painful ejaculation is observed. 
• Changes in orgasm: Changes in the intensity or sensation of orgasm are noted. 

4. Blood in the urine or semen 

Seeing blood in your urine or semen is alarming and should never be ignored. They can signal potential prostate diseases, such as: 

• Prostatitis: Inflammation or infection of the prostate gland can cause blood to appear in the urine or semen. This is often accompanied by other symptoms such as pelvic pain, painful urination and an urgent need to urinate. 
• Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH): Enlargement of the prostate gland leads to damage to the surrounding blood vessels and the appearance of blood in the urine. Although BPH itself is not cancer, it can cause unpleasant urinary symptoms and complications such as urinary tract infections or bladder stones. 
• Prostate cancer: Blood in the urine or semen can also be a warning sign of prostate cancer, especially if it occurs along with other worrisome symptoms such as difficulty urinating, erectile dysfunction, or bone pain. 
• Trauma or injury: In some cases, blood in the urine or semen is the result of trauma or injury to the prostate gland or surrounding structures. 

5. Unexplained weight loss or fatigue: 

Although weight loss and fatigue can be caused by various factors such as lifestyle or stress, they can also be associated with advanced prostate cancer. 

• Advanced prostate cancer: Cancer cells consume energy and nutrients, resulting in unintentional weight loss despite adequate food intake. Fatigue is also common. 
• Metastases: Metastases to bones, lymph nodes, or other organs can cause pain, discomfort, and changes in metabolism that contribute to weight loss and fatigue. 
• Hormonal changes: Advanced prostate cancer can disrupt hormone levels in the body, especially testosterone. Low testosterone levels contribute to fatigue, reduced muscle mass and weight loss. 

Prostate cancer prevention and screening 

Prostate screening tests include: 

• Digital rectal examination (DRP): During a DRP, the doctor inserts a gloved finger and lubricant into the rectum to examine the adjacent prostate. If any abnormalities are found in the texture, shape or size of the gland, you may need further tests. 
• Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test: A blood sample is taken from a vein in the arm and analyzed for PSA, a substance that is naturally produced by the prostate gland. If it is found to be higher than the usual level, it may indicate a prostate infection, inflammation, enlargement or cancer. 

Completely preventing prostate cancer is not always possible, but there are several things that can help reduce the risk of developing it, as well as protect against other prostate complications: 

• Maintain a healthy diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and clean sources of protein. Fruits and vegetables are high in antioxidants and vitamins. Include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as oily fish (salmon, mackerel, trout), flaxseeds, and walnuts. 
• Exercise: Regular exercise not only helps maintain a healthy weight, but also reduces inflammation and the risk of various cancers, including prostate cancer. Exercise is also helpful in maintaining testosterone levels. 
• Give up alcohol and cigarettes: Alcohol and cigarettes are associated with an increased risk of aggressive forms of prostate cancer. 
• Take dietary supplements: Studies show that certain dietary supplements, such as vitamin E, selenium and lycopene (found in tomatoes), may help reduce the risk of prostate cancer. 

Dietary supplements such as Alphain can help prevent prostate disease. Its intake helps  dealing with already existing problems that you may have with your prostate. Alphain is a product that supports prostate health and sexual function in benign prostatic hyperplasia. It contributes to the health of the prostate gland by: 

• Maintaining normal levels of testosterone in the blood 
• It has an aphrodisiac effect and contributes to male potency and fertility 
• Improves urinary function 

_______________________________________________________ 

FAQ: 

Is prostatic hyperplasia a cancer? 

• No, prostatic hyperplasia, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia, is not cancer. It is a non-cancerous condition characterized by enlargement of the prostate gland. Although BPH can cause urinary symptoms and affect quality of life, it does not increase the risk of developing prostate cancer. 

Who is most at risk of developing prostate cancer? 

• Prostate cancer usually affects older men, usually those 65 and older. Men who have a family history of prostate cancer are also at higher risk. 

When and how often should men be screened for prostate cancer? 

• Men who have any symptoms of prostate cancer should consult their doctor or urologist. Men aged 55-69 who do not have symptoms should discuss the benefits and risks of screening with their GP. Screening is not recommended for men age 70 and older who do not have symptoms. 

_______________________________________________________ 

Sources: 

• https://www.urologycenterofflorida.com/blog/what-every-man-should-know-about-prostate-health  
• https://www.health.harvard.edu/mens-health/the-growing-problem-of-an-enlarged-prostate-gland  
• https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/prostate-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20353087  
• https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/prostate-cancer/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20353093  
• https://phelpshealth.org/news/featured-stories/10-questions-about-prostate-cancer-answered  

prostate problems

Вашият имейл адрес няма да бъде публикуван – не е необходима дори регистрация. Просто попълнете формуляра по-долу и pellentesque dignissim condimentum lacinia. Integer at faucibus ex, sed luctus nisi. Vestibulum eros nisi, tincidunt vitae interdum sit amet, elementum eget tellus.