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5 signs you shouldn't ignore in your prostate

Prostate problems

The most important thing:

  • What is the prostate?
  • The most common prostate diseases.
  • 5 symptoms you shouldn’t ignore regarding your prostate.
  • Prevention and screening for prostate cancer.

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Prostate health is an important, yet often overlooked, part of men’s overall health. The prostate is a small, walnut-shaped gland located just below the bladder. It plays a key role in male reproductive function. Prostate problems often cause discomfort and inconvenience, and can sometimes even lead to serious health complications if left untreated.

As men get older, the risk of prostate problems increases significantly. By the age of 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 percentage reaches 90%.

In this article, we aim to highlight five signs that men should never ignore when it comes to their prostate health. These symptoms serve as important indicators of potential gland problems and should prompt you to take timely action to prevent further complications.

Prostate problems

What is the prostate?

This walnut-sized gland is important for producing seminal fluid, which is a key component of semen and enables sperm movement. The prostate is responsible for closing the urethra during ejaculation. It also contains an enzyme that converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone. The latter, in addition to regulating prostate function, is vital for secondary sexual characteristics such as facial hair.

The most common prostate diseases

There are three common problems that affect the prostate:

Prostatitis

This is the most common prostate condition in men under 50 and usually refers to inflammation or infection of the prostate gland. Prostatitis can be acute or chronic if the inflammation persists for more than three months. Typical symptoms include pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen, painful urination, fever and sexual dysfunction.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)

BPH, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia, is the most common non-cancerous condition in men over the age of 50. As the gland enlarges, it can press on the urethra, leading to difficulties with urination, such as frequent urination, a weak urine flow and incomplete emptying of the bladder.

Prostate cancer

It 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 deadlier, so it is important to have regular check-ups for early detection.

5 signals you shouldn’t ignore

Prostate problems

The above-mentioned diseases often manifest with similar symptoms, which include:

1. Urinary symptoms

Urinary symptoms that indicate prostate problems include:

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

2. Pain

Prostate problems can manifest as pain during urination or discomfort in various areas, including the pelvic region, lower back or genitals.

  • Pelvic pain: discomfort or painful sensations in the pelvic region, often localised around the base of the penis or in the area between the scrotum and the anus.
  • Lower back pain: A dull or throbbing ache in the lower back, which sometimes spreads to the thighs, may indicate prostate problems.
  • Genital discomfort: pain or tenderness in the testicles, penis or groin, 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 conditions, including BPH, prostatitis and prostate cancer.
  • Reduced 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 during orgasm are noticeable.

4. Blood in urine or semen

The presence of blood in the urine or semen is alarming and should never be ignored. It may indicate possible prostate disorders, such as:

  • Prostatitis: Inflammation or infection of the prostate can cause blood to appear in the urine or semen. This is often accompanied by other symptoms, such as pelvic pain, painful urination and urinary urgency.
  • Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH): Enlargement of the prostate gland leads to damage to the surrounding blood vessels and the presence of blood in the urine. Although BPH is not cancerous, it can cause uncomfortable symptoms during urination 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 when it occurs alongside other concerning 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, leading to unintentional weight loss despite an adequate food intake. Fatigue is also common.
  • Metastases: Metastases in the bones, lymph nodes or other organs can cause pain, discomfort and metabolic changes that contribute to weight loss and fatigue.
  • Hormonal changes: advanced prostate cancer can disrupt the body’s hormonal levels, particularly testosterone. Low testosterone levels contribute to fatigue, reduced muscle mass and weight loss.

Prevention and screening for prostate cancer

Prostate screening tests include:

  • Digital rectal examination (DRE). During a DRE, the doctor inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to examine the nearby prostate. If any abnormalities in the gland’s texture, shape or size are detected, you may require further investigations.
  • Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test. A blood sample is taken from a vein in the arm and analysed for PSA, a substance naturally produced by the prostate gland. If the level is higher than normal, it may indicate an infection, inflammation, enlargement or cancer of the prostate.

It is not always possible to prevent prostate cancer completely, but there are several strategies that can help reduce the risk of developing the disease and protect against other prostate complications:

  • Maintain a healthy diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruit, vegetables, whole grains and sources of lean protein. Fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants and vitamins. Include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as oily fish (salmon, mackerel, trout), flaxseed and walnuts.
  • Exercise: Regular exercise not only helps to maintain a healthy body weight but also reduces inflammation and the risk of various types of cancer, including prostate cancer. Exercise is also beneficial for maintaining testosterone levels.
  • Give up alcohol and cigarettes: Consumption of alcohol and cigarettes is associated with an increased risk of aggressive forms of prostate cancer.
  • Take dietary supplements: Research shows 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 diseases. Taking it also helps you manage any existing prostate problems you may have. Alphain is a product that supports prostate health and sexual function in benign prostatic hyperplasia. It contributes to prostate health by:

  • Maintains a normal level of testosterone in the blood.
  • It has an aphrodisiac effect and contributes to male potency and fertility.
  • Improves bladder function

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CHZV:

Is prostate hyperplasia cancer?

  • No, benign prostatic hyperplasia, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia, is not cancer. It is a non-cancerous condition characterised 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, typically those aged 65 and over. Men with a family history of prostate cancer are also at greater risk.

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

  • Men who have any symptoms of prostate cancer should consult their GP or a urologist. Men aged 55 to 69 who have no symptoms should discuss the benefits and risks of screening with their GP. Screening is not recommended for men aged 70 and over who have no symptoms.

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Sources:

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