The prostate is a small, but important gland in the male reproductive system. Like any other part of the human body, things can sometimes go wrong with the prostate causing uncomfortable symptoms such as difficulty urinating. You may find yourself facing common conditions like an enlarged prostate, prostatitis, or prostate cancer.
If you or a loved one is suffering from a prostate problem, understanding more about it can help you better manage the condition. In this section, you will find key details about the prostate and the most common prostate diseases.
To learn about the warning signs of prostate disease, see Symptoms of Prostate Conditions and Disease. For more information about the diagnostic tests used to identify prostate problems, read our page Diagnosis.
As prostate problems are often highly treatable, there is comprehensive information on the treatment options available. While not always preventable, there is also a page that includes some general tips for healthy living to reduce your risk of prostate problems.
The symptoms of prostate problems vary depending on the cause and severity of the condition. However, the most common signs of prostate problems include:
The prostate is a gland forming part of the male reproductive system. It is located in front of the rectum and below the bladder. The urethra runs through the center of the prostate, from the bladder to the penis, letting urine flow out of the body. The main function of the prostate gland is to produce fluid which protects and enriches sperm.
In young men, the prostate is about the size of a walnut and continues to grow with age due to changes in the balance of sex hormones as men grow older. Its position near urinary and sexual organs means that certain prostate problems, as well as a number of treatments of those problems, can affect urination and sexual function. In many men, this continued growth enlarges the prostate enough to cause urinary symptoms or to significantly block urine flow.
According to Prostate Cancer UK , the three most common prostate problems are:
If a prostate condition or disease is suspected, there are several tests to help your doctor identify the problem and decide on the best treatment. These include:
Several treatments are available for prostate problems, including treatment for prostate cancer. The best treatment choice for you depends on a number of factors, including your diagnosis, how much your symptoms affect you, your age, other health conditions you may have, as well as your preference. Treatment options include:
There is currently no known way to completely prevent prostate conditions and disease. However, a person's risk of developing prostate problems can be reduced by maintaining a healthy, low-fat diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Incorporating phytochemical-rich foods, such as tomatoes (which contain lycopene) and soy products (which have isoflavones), may also help reduce risk.
Maintaining a healthy weight through exercise is another key way to reduce the risk of prostate disease. According to Harvard Health , evidence is accumulating that losing extra pounds, or avoiding weight gain in the first place, might help keep a prostate tumor in check.
Other than diet and exercise, the best prevention of prostate disease is regular check-ups. Prostate cancer is more easily cured when caught early. After the age of 40, regular prostate check-ups are highly recommended for all men. A yearly examination can help to avoid major complications with prostate cancer later in life.
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