Prostate Problems Symptoms

The prostate gland is an exocrine gland present in the male reproductive system, located just below the bladder. Major functions of the prostate gland include controlling urination and producing certain substances found in semen. As the age of a man advances, the prostate gland enlarges. The changes in the size of the prostate gland causes narrowing of the urethra, resulting in problems in urination. The three major prostate problems include benign prostate hypertrophy (BPH), prostatitis and prostate cancer. Let us talk some more about prostate problems symptoms.

BPH

The prostate gland grows larger in size during normal aging. This enlargement is known as benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH). It is commonly found in older men and is rare in younger men. There is no specific cause of BPH as it is a natural phenomenon of aging, just like graying of hair. BPH can be treated with medical or surgical procedures.

Symptoms

• Difficulty in urination
• Frequent urination
• Nocturia (excessive urination at night)
• Weak flow of urine

Prostatitis

Prostatitis is the inflammation or swelling of the prostate gland due to bacterial infection. Prostatitis can be acute as well as chronic. In acute Prostatitis, the severe symptoms occur suddenly, whereas, in the case of chronic Prostatitis, the symptoms recurrently surface. Men of any age group can suffer from Prostatitis.

Symptoms

• Burning sensation during urination
• Pain on urinating or ejaculating
• Frequent urination
• Fever and chills (in severe Prostatitis)
• Pain in the pelvic area

Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is a common type of cancer in America, second only to Lung cancer. One in every 6 older men suffer from prostate cancer. Cancerous growth (malignant tumor) of cells in the prostate gland result in prostate cancer. The worst part about it is that no abnormalities are seen in the initial stage of this cancer. They are usually observed only in the advanced stage, when the cancer spreads to other parts of the body. Prostate cancer is extremely rare in younger men (below 40 years of age). It is found only in older men. BPH and prostate cancer go together. But BPH is not the cause of prostate cancer as is the general misconception. Early symptoms of prostate cancer are like that of other prostate problems.

Age and genetics are the primary risk factors for prostate cancer. Heredity, diet containing high saturated fats, cigarette smoking, exposure to chemicals and toxins play an important role in development of prostate cancer. Testosterone hormone is also believed to stimulate growth of cancerous cells along with the normal cells. Therefore, decreasing the level of testosterone can help in inhibiting prostate cancer. Prostate specific antigen (PSA) is the screening test for prostate cancer. Treatment of prostate cancer includes surgery, radiations and chemotherapy.

Symptoms

• Difficulty in urination
• Nocturia
• Frequent urination
• Pain on ejaculation
• Burning sensation during urination or blood in urine
• Enlarged and obstructed urinary bladder
• Presence of nodule (lump) in prostate gland
• Nodes are also found in pelvic region and spine in advanced stage resulting in back and pelvic pain
• Chest and abdomen pain, cough and jaundice is also observed in the most advanced stage of prostate cancer

Although there are no preventive measures for prostate problems, maintaining hygiene and a healthy diet can minimize prostate trouble. You must have noted that urinary difficulties are the most common and universal prostate problems symptoms. When such symptoms surface, you must immediately consult your doctor to have the exact diagnosis carried out. Remember that all prostate problems in men can be treated.