New Delhi: In men, the prostate gland is located just below the bladder and surrounds the top portion of the tube that drains urine. The most important function of the prostate is to produce the fluid that nourishes and transports sperm.
However, as you age, some of you may have trouble peeing as it would be hard to start going, or perhaps the stream starts and stops several times. This is one of the changes in the prostate gland which is an indication all is not well.
According to experts, the prostate – which grows during early puberty and then again around age 25, becomes enlarged in many men. It can pinch your urethra, the tube that carries urine – and even make bladder walls thicker.
This is the most common problem in men as they become older. Many suffer from ailments related to the prostate, which include prostate cancer, prostatitis, and benign prostatic hyperplasia. Hence, it is important to know the signs to get a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Signs of an unhealthy prostate
A few signs and symptoms you need to watch out for are:
Frequent urge to pee
If you notice a very frequent urge to pee all the time, especially at night, or a weak urine stream, it is time to see a doctor.
Pain in the penis
Pain in or around your penis, testicles, or perineum can be severe, and discomforting. It is a sign of the beginning of prostatitis and needs urgent treatment
Blood in urine or semen
According to doctors, with an enlarged prostate, you may have noticed some blood in the urine or semen which can be due to infection of the prostate.
Erectile dysfunction
An enlarged prostate does not cause Erectile dysfunction, but can certainly affect the ability to keep an erection for a long time.
According to Harvard Health, the problem often develops gradually. One night it may take longer or require more stimulation to get an erection. On another occasion, the erection may not be as firm as usual, or it may end before orgasm. When such difficulties occur regularly, it’s time to talk to your doctor.
Urinary Tract Infections
If you have been frequently catching urinary tract infections, it is possible that your prostate needs a thorough check up. Experts say bacteria cause a UTI that migrates through the urinary tract and reaches the prostate gland, causing acute bacterial prostatitis.
Ways to keep your prostate healthy
You can take note of the following:
Get regular prostate screenings
According to experts, most men should start regular screenings by the age of 45. Also, if you have a family history of prostate cancer, it is always a good idea to start screenings at a younger age.
Exercise regularly
Studies have proved that those who are more physically active are less likely to have any kind of prostate-related ailments.
Eat a healthy diet
Eating the recommended amounts of fruits, vegetables, and healthy protein may help promote prostate health.
Quit tobacco
Smoking and other tobacco products increase your risk of developing prostate cancer, so it is best to quit.
Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purposes only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a dietician before starting any fitness programme or making any changes to your diet