Male Prostate

Prostate Problems

The prostate gland forms a vital part of the male reproductive system. Located just below the bladder, the prostate surrounds the urethra tube and is about the size of a walnut. The urethra has two main functions: to transport urine from the bladder when you urinate and to carry semen during ejaculation. The prostate contains important cells that make some of the fluid (semen) that protects and nourishes the sperm. There are three main prostate problems common to men:

• Prostatitis
• Prostate enlargement
• Prostate cancer

What is prostatitis?

Prostatitis, also know as inflammation of the prostate gland, is most prevalent in men under 50. It is a condition where the prostate becomes inflamed or irritated. Most types of prostatitis are caused by a bacterial infection which can be easily detected in a urine sample. However, some forms are nonbacterial and may be harder to detect so your may require further tests.
Symptoms of prostatitis

• A burning sensation whilst urinating
• Frequent urination
• Fever
• Tiredness

Treatment

In most cases, when bacteria is present, the infection can be treated with prescribed antibiotics. If the infection returns after the initial treatment, your local clinic may administer direct antibiotic injections into the prostrate. This treatment has a high success rate.

Non-bacterial prostatitis is harder to treat and you may have to work with your doctor to find a treatment that suits you, such as changing your diet or taking warm baths. Your doctor may also prescribe alpha blockers, which relax the prostate muscle tissue.

What is prostate enlargement?

Prostate enlargement, also know as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is most common in those over 50. The prostate begins to develop before birth and keeps on growing until a man reaches adulthood. However, in older men the prostate may continue to grow. As it does so, it squeezes and restricts the urethra and therefore the flow of fluid. BPH is not a serious condition but it can lead to further problems, such as urinary tract infections, if not treated. There are many tests to help the doctor identify the exact problem and decide on the best treatment, such as blood tests, x-rays and a cystoscopy.

Symptoms of prostate enlargement

• A frequent and urgent need to urinate
• Difficulty starting the urine stream
• A weak urine stream
• A small of amount of urine
• Leaking urine
• Small amounts of blood in the urine

Treatment

There are many treatments available to treat BPH, depending on the severity of the problem and suitability for individual. There are several medicinal treatments that help shrink and relax the prostate to prevent it blocking the bladder opening. In some cases a non-surgical procedure may be needed to remove part of the prostate. This is a transurethral procedure whereby a small thin tube is inserted into the urethra so that can heat can be applied to the restricting prostate.

It is important to note that BPH is not prostate cancer, but because the symptoms are both similar you must visit your doctor to evaluate the symptoms.

Prostatic Cancer

The prostate is a relatively common site of cancer. It is estimated that one in six men will get prostate cancer at some point in his lifetime. Fortunately, the prostate gland is easily palpable and cancer tissue is usually easy to discover. Prostate cancer, also referred to as prostatic carcinoma, usually begins with very small changes in the size and shape of the prostate gland cells. It is estimated that approximately half of all men undergo these changes by the time they reach 50, but most remain low-grade and risk-free. It is therefore recommended that middle-aged men have regular prostate examinations.

What causes prostate cancer?

The exact cause of prostate cancer is still unknown, but there are several risk factors, some of which can be controlled.

• Age
• Race
• Nationality
• Family history
• Diet
• Obesity
• Lack of exercise
• Infection or inflammation of the prostate

Alternative Therapies – Prostate Massage

Since the late 1990s, doctors have found that prostate massage can assist with prostate health by increasing blood flow to the area, and providing oxygen and essential nutrients. In addition, massaging the gland can improve total wellbeing and all-over physical and mental health. Research has shown that it can improve the quality of sleep, give you more energy, and improve your sex life.