Prostate Problems

One of the important parts of the male reproductive system is what is known as the prostate gland. Before male ejaculation, this gland mixes the semen with a milky or white secretion, that is alkaline in nature (pH 7.29). It also contains enzymes and calcium. Now this prostate secretion makes the semen alkaline. Why? The alkalinity of the semen helps the sperm survive the acidity of the vaginal tract, once they are in it after sexual intercourse. So, this basically prolongs the life of the sperm, as they travel through the vaginal tract towards the egg for fertilization. In other words, the main function of the prostate gland is to provide a protective medium to the sperm cells thus, increasing the chances of fertility. Other important functions of this gland is to help propel semen fluid out of the penis, and controlling the flow of urine during ejaculation.

Common Problems With the Prostate Gland

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
Also known as prostate gland enlargement, this condition characterizes the enlargement of the prostate gland in men, that is severe enough to cause various problems with the urinary system in the body. This ailment is common in older men, especially those who have crossed their 80s. However, there have been cases wherein, men below the age of 30, have also been diagnosed with this condition. Complications may include blocked urine flow, urinary tract or kidney problems.

Symptoms:

• The person experiences difficulty in starting urination thus, straining during urinating
• There might occur frequent start and stops during urinating
• Constant urge to urinate
• Nocturia
• A feeling of complete evacuation
• Presence of blood in the urine
• Bladder stones, affected kidney function, and urinary tract infection
• Another noticeable symptom of enlarge prostate is dribbling at the end of urination

Causes:

There have been no specific findings which can bring out the specific cause of prostate enlargement. However, experts are aware of the fact that rapid multiplication of the cells in the gland, cause it to grow. This abnormal process may be a result of certain changes in the balance of male hormone (testosterone) and female hormone (estrogen) levels in men.

Treatment:

Fortunately, there are a wide variety of treatment options available for dealing with this problem, and to reduce its complications. The options include medications, and surgery. Alpha blockers make it easier for the person to urinate, 5 alpha reductase inhibitors help in shrinking the enlarged prostate. In some cases, a combination of these two drugs may be required for the treatment. Now some patients may not do well with mere medications. For them, there are a wide range of surgical options available, which are designed to reduce the size of the prostate gland, and treat the complications.

Prostate Cancer
Speaking of the other prostate problem, it is a more severe condition known as prostate cancer. As the name suggests, it is the cancer of the prostate gland. It is known to be one of the common kinds of cancers that affect men. Some types of prostate cancer, have a slow growing nature and do not cause any serious harm. These types of cancer initially remain confined to the gland. While, some may have an aggressive growth and spread quickly.

Symptoms:

• Presence of blood in urine, and/or semen
• Edema in legs
• A feeling of discomfort in the pelvic area
• Pain in the bones
• Difficulty in urinating

Causes:

Even with this condition, doctors aren't certain about the causes. What may happen is, cells grow and divide abnormally in the gland and form tumors. These may eventually take the form of a cancer.

Treatment:

In some cases, some men may not require any treatment, except for waiting and watching. This is true for those patients whose prostate cancer gets diagnosed at an early stage. If tests show that the disease is progressing, then the patient can start the treatment. It might involve radiation therapy, hormone therapy, and chemotherapy. Doctors might also go for the removal of the prostate gland, freezing the prostate tissue to kill the cancer cells, or heating the tissue for the same.

Prostate enlargement is common with most men, and as mentioned, prostate cancer is one of the common types of cancers that affect men. The former, however, is less severe than the latter. Nevertheless, it is recommended that men must go for regular prostate examination so as to prevent such potential problems.