Advances in localized prostate cancer: A special focus on photothermal therapy
Prostate Problems -- BPH, Prostatitis, Prostate Cancer -- Symptoms And Treatments - WebMD
The prostate is a walnut-sized gland found only in men and people assigned male at birth (AMAB). It sits just below the bladder and surrounds the urethra, the tube that carries pee through your penis. The prostate's main job is to make fluid for semen.
Your prostate grows naturally with age, usually without problems. But like any organ, it can be affected by certain conditions. Here are some of the most common ones.
Prostate cancer is more common in men over 50. If you have risk factors, your doctor may suggest starting screening early. (Photo Credit: DigitalVision/Getty Images)
BPH, also known as an enlarged prostate, is when your prostate grows larger than normal in size. It's called benign because it's not cancerous. It's unclear exactly what causes BPH, but researchers believe it's related to hormonal changes as you age.
Symptoms of BPH
An enlarged prostate can press on your urethra, leading to several urinary symptoms, including:
Risk factors for BPH
You're at an increased risk for BPH if:
Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men and people AMAB, after skin cancer. About 1 in 8 men and people AMAB will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime.
Prostate cancer symptoms
At first, you might not have any symptoms. If it advances, these symptoms are common:
Risk factors for prostate cancer
Like BPH, the risk for prostate cancer increases with age. It's most common in people older than 50.
You are also at an increased risk if you:
If you have risk factors, your doctor may suggest starting prostate cancer screening at a younger age.
Prostatitis is inflammation of your prostate gland. There are four types:
Acute bacterial prostatitis. This is a bacterial infection of the prostate that comes on suddenly and can cause severe symptoms, such as fever, chills, pain in the lower back or groin, and difficulty peeing.
Chronic bacterial prostatitis. This bacterial infection of the prostate develops slowly and can last months or even years. Symptoms may be similar to those of acute bacterial prostatitis, but they are usually less severe.
Chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome. This type of prostatitis causes pain in the pelvic area, but there's no sign of infection.
Asymptomatic inflammatory prostatitis: This type of prostatitis has no symptoms. It is usually diagnosed during a routine exam or testing for another condition.
Symptoms of prostatitis
Symptoms depend on the type of prostatitis you have, but you may experience:
Risk factors
Unlike most prostate problems, prostatitis happens more often in young and middle-aged men and people AMAB. You may also have an increased risk if you have:
Anyone with a prostate, regardless of their gender identity, can experience prostate problems. This includes cisgender men, transgender women, transgender men who have not had bottom surgery, and nonbinary people assigned male at birth.
Conditions such as enlarged prostate and prostatitis may be less common in transgender women and nonbinary individuals who are on hormone therapy that suppresses testosterone, but it's still important to be aware of them.
Unfortunately, there aren't many studies focused on prostate health in transgender and nonbinary populations. This gap in knowledge makes it even more crucial to be proactive about your health and discuss it with health care providers.
Prostate problems symptoms for trans and nonbinary people
The symptoms of prostate problems are typically the same for everyone, regardless of gender identity. It's important to note that some symptoms may appear differently or be less noticeable depending on your anatomy and any gender-affirming treatments.
Prostate problems diagnosis for trans and nonbinary people
Diagnosing prostate problems often involves a physical exam, including a digital rectal exam (DRE), as well as urine tests and possibly imaging tests.
It's essential to find a health care provider who is knowledgeable and affirming of your gender identity. A gender-affirming provider will be sensitive to your specific needs and concerns and provide the best possible care. You can find a gender-affirming clinic by searching online directories or asking for referrals from LGBTQ+ community organizations.
When discussing your health concerns, be open and honest with your provider about your medical history, including any gender-affirming care you have received. This information is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
In some ways, prostate problems, particularly BPH, are a natural part of growing older. Still, there are specific steps you can take to keep your prostate healthy.
Treatment depends on which kind of prostate problem you develop.
Treatment for BPH
BPH needs treatment only if the urinary symptoms become bothersome. BPH often responds to medications such as:
Alpha-blockers. These ease the tension around the urethra. They include alfuzosin (Uroxatral), doxazosin (Cardura), silodosin (Rapaflo), and tamsulosin (Flomax).
5-alpha reductase inhibitors. These reduce the size of the prostate itself. Examples include finasteride (Proscar) and dutasteride (Avodart).
Your doctor may also prescribe a combination of these drugs. If medication does not relieve the symptoms, surgery may be required.
Prostate cancer treatment
Prostate cancer treatment is more complex. When creating a prostate cancer treatment plan, your doctor will consider your age, overall health, and how aggressive or widespread the prostate cancer is. Some treatment options include:
Treatment for prostatitis
Prostatitis is usually a bacterial infection and is most often treated with antibiotics. Your doctor can also prescribe medications to help treat the symptoms of prostatitis.
Prostate cancer screening is controversial. Some doctors and organizations recommend regular screening, while others don't.
The American Cancer Society says men and people AMAB should talk to their doctors about the benefits, risks, and limitations of prostate cancer screening before deciding whether to be tested. The discussion about screening should start at age 50 for most men and people AMAB with average risk for prostate cancer, and earlier for those at higher risk.
The American Urological Association recommends that men aged 55 to 69 who are considering screening should talk with their doctors about the pros and cons of testing and proceed based on their personal values and preferences. The Association has found that screening slightly reduces the odds of death from prostate cancer but its benefits may not outweigh the potential risks, such as:
If prostate cancer screening is done, it involves a blood test and possibly a prostate exam by your doctor. Whether or not you test is something you and your doctor must decide together.
Anyone with a prostate is at risk for prostate problems. The most common ones include BPH, prostate cancer, and prostatitis. Certain factors, such as age, race, and lifestyle, increase your risk of these conditions. If you have symptoms or are worried about your risk, meet with your doctor to discuss treatment and prevention.
What is the most common prostate problem?
In men and people AMAB younger than 50, prostatitis is the most common prostate problem. In those older than 50, BPH is the most common issue.
What are the warning signs of prostate problems?
Symptoms may include having to pee more often than normal, feeling a burning sensation when you pee, seeing blood in your pee or semen, dribbling pee after you have finished, and painful ejaculation.
What can I drink to clean my prostate?
You can't clean your prostate with beverages. However, some beverages have been found to boost prostate health. Coffee and green tea contain antioxidants that can help fight cancer. Cooked tomatoes and tomato juice contain high levels of an antioxidant called lycopene.
How can I check my prostate at home?
You can't check your prostate at home. Only a health care provider can perform an exam and/or blood test to check your prostate health.
Signs Of A Healthy ProstateOnlyMyHealth
The prostate is an integral part of the male reproductive system, whose primary function is to produce semen, which is a fluid that is slightly alkaline in nature and helps nourish and protect the sperm, said Dr Santosh Gawali, Consultant Urologist, Jaslok Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai, in a conversation with the OnlyMyHealth team.
Prostate health is not a widely spoken-about or discussed topic in society, which is why many men suffer the negative consequences of overlooking the problems associated with the organ. Not only is it important to know the symptoms of a prostate issue, but it is also crucial to understand how a healthy prostate functions. Here's what Dr Gawali had to say.
Also Read: PSA Test For Prostate Cancer Diagnosis: Things Men Need To Know About It
Normal Urinary Functions Indicate A Healthy ProstateThe prostate is described as a small, walnut-sized gland located just below the bladder in men. It surrounds the urethra, which is the tube that carries urine and semen out of the body. Therefore, prostate health can be determined by a healthy, functioning urinary system. Some of the signs of a healthy prostate include:
In addition, if you have normal sexual function or pain-free sexual activity, it could be a sign of a healthy prostate. But ensure that you get regular prostate screenings, as most problems can be asymptomatic, including prostate cancer.
PSA Test For Prostate ScreeningIf you want to know the condition of your prostate and whether it is functioning properly or not, you can get a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test, which measures the level of a protein found exclusively in the prostatic tissue.
If the levels are elevated or more than 4 ng/ml, it could signal a problem, whereas if they are less than 4 ng/ml, it could indicate a healthy prostate.
Common Prostate Conditions To NoteSome of the common prostate-related conditions include:
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): This condition involves the non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, which can cause problems with urination.
Prostatitis: Prostatitis is the inflammation of the prostate gland and can be caused by bacterial infection. It can lead to symptoms such as pain or discomfort in the pelvic area, difficulty urinating, and sometimes fever.
Prostate Cancer: Prostate cancer is a malignancy that occurs in the prostate gland, which accounted for an estimated 14 lakh new cancer cases and 3.75 lakh deaths in 2020, according to research published in the Journal Frontiers of Public Health. In India, prostate cancer cases for the periods 2010, 2015, and 2020 were estimated at 26,120, 28,079, and 30,185, respectively, as per data published in the Indian Journal of Urology (IJU). Dr Gawali said that the early stages of prostate cancer may not cause symptoms, but as it progresses, it can lead to problems with urination, blood in the urine, and other symptoms.
Also Read: Did You Know There Are Different Types Of Prostate Cancer? Know Which Is The Most Common One
Symptoms Of An Unhealthy ProstateHere are some common symptoms associated with prostate problems:
Just like any other organ in the body, the prostate also requires care. There are several conditions, such as prostatitis, BPH, and prostate cancer, that can affect the gland, leading to distressing symptoms. If left untreated, it can progress to further complications, and in the case of cancer, it can become life-threatening. Therefore, regularly self-examine your prostate—know how it looks and feels when it's normal—so that you can identify any changes that could indicate a problem.
DisclaimerAll possible measures have been taken to ensure accuracy, reliability, timeliness and authenticity of the information; however Onlymyhealth.Com does not take any liability for the same. Using any information provided by the website is solely at the viewers' discretion. In case of any medical exigencies/ persistent health issues, we advise you to seek a qualified medical practitioner before putting to use any advice/tips given by our team or any third party in form of answers/comments on the above mentioned website.
Warning Signs Of Male Urinary Problems You Cannot Ignore - Rolling Out
Why addressing these issues early leads to better outcomes and improved quality of life
Millions of men worldwide experience urinary problems, yet many dismiss their symptoms as an unavoidable part of aging. The gradual onset of these issues often means warning signs go unnoticed until they significantly impact daily life and relationships. Understanding these symptoms and addressing them promptly not only leads to more effective treatment but can prevent serious complications down the road.
The reluctance many men feel about discussing urinary issues creates an unfortunate barrier to early intervention. This hesitation, often rooted in embarrassment or the mistaken belief that nothing can be done, prevents many from seeking help during the critical early stages when treatment options are most effective and least invasive.
How the male urinary system changes with ageThe male urinary system undergoes several changes as men grow older, creating vulnerability to various issues that can affect urination. Understanding these natural changes helps explain why problems develop and what can be done to address them.
The prostate gland sits at the center of many urinary issues. This walnut-sized gland surrounds the urethra just below the bladder and typically grows larger as men age. By age 60, more than half of all men develop benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a non-cancerous enlargement that can compress the urethra and obstruct urine flow.
Bladder changes also contribute significantly to urination problems. Over time, the bladder muscle may become overactive, causing sudden, strong urges to urinate. Alternatively, it might become underactive, making it difficult to completely empty the bladder. These changes often develop gradually, making them easy to overlook until symptoms become more pronounced.
The complex nervous system controlling urination can also change with age. Signals between the brain and bladder may become less efficient, affecting the coordination needed for normal urination. Various medical conditions, including diabetes, stroke, and Parkinson's disease, can further complicate this delicate system.
Early warning signs that should prompt medical attentionRecognizing the early indicators of urinary problems allows for prompt medical evaluation and more effective treatment. These warning signs often appear gradually, making them easy to dismiss until they significantly impact quality of life.
Increased urination frequency, particularly at night, often serves as one of the first noticeable changes. Many men initially attribute nighttime bathroom trips to drinking fluids before bed, not realizing it could signal developing prostate or bladder issues. When getting up multiple times each night becomes routine, it warrants medical attention.
Changes in the urine stream provide another important clue. A weakened stream, difficulty starting urination, stopping and starting while urinating, or dribbling at the end all indicate potential problems with the prostate or urinary system. These changes typically develop slowly, making them easy to overlook or accept as normal aging.
The sensation of incomplete emptying after urination represents another common early warning sign. This feeling occurs when the bladder cannot fully contract due to obstruction or muscle weakness. Beyond discomfort, this incomplete emptying can lead to urinary tract infections if consistently left unaddressed.
Pain or burning during urination should never be ignored as it often signals infection or inflammation requiring prompt treatment. Similarly, blood in the urine, while alarming, provides an important warning sign that requires immediate medical attention to rule out serious conditions, including cancer.
Urgency—the sudden, compelling need to urinate that cannot be delayed—can significantly impact daily activities and social engagements. This symptom often indicates an overactive bladder but may also result from prostate enlargement or neurological changes affecting bladder control.
Modern approaches to diagnosis and treatmentThe medical approach to male urinary problems has evolved significantly in recent years, moving beyond simple medication to comprehensive treatment plans tailored to each individual. This evolution offers men more effective options with fewer side effects.
Initial evaluation typically includes a detailed medical history and physical examination. Healthcare providers may order urine tests to check for infection, blood, or other abnormalities. Additional assessments may include measuring post-void residual urine with ultrasound, urine flow testing, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood tests, and specialized bladder function studies.
Treatment often begins with lifestyle modifications that can significantly improve urinary symptoms. These include managing fluid intake timing, moderating alcohol and caffeine consumption, strengthening pelvic floor muscles through targeted exercises, and maintaining a healthy weight through proper diet and regular physical activity.
For many men, medication provides effective symptom relief. Alpha blockers relax the muscles in the prostate and bladder neck, improving urine flow in cases of BPH. 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors can actually shrink the prostate over time for men with significant enlargement. Other medications target specific conditions like overactive bladder by calming bladder muscle contractions or reducing sudden urges.
When conservative approaches prove insufficient, minimally invasive procedures offer effective alternatives to traditional surgery. These include techniques that remove excess prostate tissue using laser energy, water vapor, or mechanical devices. Many of these procedures can be performed on an outpatient basis, with minimal recovery time and reduced risk of side effects compared to traditional surgery.
For more severe cases, surgical intervention may become necessary. Modern surgical techniques, including robotic-assisted procedures, allow for precise treatment with smaller incisions, reduced bleeding, and faster recovery times than traditional approaches. These advances make surgery a more viable option for men who might previously have avoided treatment due to concerns about recovery or side effects.
How urinary problems affect daily life and relationshipsThe impact of urinary problems extends far beyond physical discomfort, often affecting nearly every aspect of a man's life. Understanding these wider effects helps explain why prompt treatment proves so important for overall wellbeing.
Sleep disruption remains one of the most significant consequences. Waking multiple times each night to urinate fragments sleep patterns, leading to daytime fatigue, irritability, and reduced cognitive function. This chronic sleep deprivation can affect work performance, driving safety, and overall quality of life.
Many men develop anxiety about bathroom access, leading them to restrict activities or avoid situations where facilities might be unavailable or inconvenient. This can mean declining social invitations, avoiding travel, or even limiting work opportunities. The resulting isolation can contribute to depression and further diminish quality of life.
The impact on intimate relationships often goes undiscussed but proves significant for many couples. Nighttime urination disrupts not only the man's sleep but often his partner's as well. Sexual function may also be affected by certain urinary conditions or their treatments, creating additional relationship challenges if not addressed openly.
Workplace challenges emerge for many men with urinary problems. Frequent bathroom breaks can interrupt workflow and productivity. Some men report anxiety about meetings or other situations where they cannot easily excuse themselves. These workplace concerns add another layer of stress to an already challenging condition.
The emotional burden often includes embarrassment, frustration, and sometimes depression. Men accustomed to physical independence may struggle with these new limitations. The gradual loss of control over such a basic bodily function can significantly impact self-esteem and mental wellbeing if left unaddressed.
Prevention strategies that actually workWhile some urinary changes come with aging, several evidence-based strategies can help maintain urinary health and prevent or delay the onset of problems. These approaches focus on overall wellness as well as specific urinary system health.
Maintaining a healthy weight through proper diet and regular exercise significantly reduces the risk of developing urinary problems. Excess weight increases pressure on the bladder and can contribute to incontinence. Studies show that even modest weight loss improves urinary symptoms in overweight men.
Proper hydration practices balance the need for adequate fluid intake with the management of urination frequency. While limiting fluids might seem logical for reducing bathroom trips, inadequate hydration actually increases the risk of urinary tract infections and kidney stones. Instead, the focus should be on timing fluid intake, with more consumption earlier in the day and less in the evening.
Avoiding bladder irritants can reduce symptoms for many men. Common irritants include caffeine, alcohol, artificial sweeteners, spicy foods, and acidic fruits and juices. Each man may react differently to potential irritants, so identifying personal triggers through elimination and reintroduction can prove helpful.
Scheduling regular urological check-ups becomes increasingly important as men age. Annual screenings typically begin around age 50 for men without risk factors, and earlier for those with family history or other risk factors. These evaluations can identify developing problems before they cause significant symptoms or complications.
Pelvic floor exercises, while often associated with women's health, provide benefits for men as well. Strengthening these muscles improves bladder control and may reduce symptoms of both incontinence and overactive bladder. Healthcare providers can provide guidance on proper technique for maximum effectiveness.
Managing chronic medical conditions properly helps prevent urinary complications. Conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and neurological disorders can contribute to urinary problems if poorly controlled. Following treatment plans for these conditions protects not only overall health but urinary function as well.
When to seek immediate medical attentionWhile many urinary symptoms warrant routine medical evaluation, certain situations require urgent or emergency care. Understanding these distinctions helps men make appropriate decisions about when and how to seek help.
Sudden inability to urinate at all, known as acute urinary retention, requires emergency treatment. This painful condition typically results from complete blockage of the urethra and can lead to kidney damage if not promptly addressed. Emergency room treatment usually involves catheterization to drain the bladder, followed by evaluation to determine the underlying cause.
Visible blood in the urine, particularly when accompanied by pain, demands prompt medical attention. While sometimes caused by minor issues like infection, bloody urine can also signal more serious conditions including cancer. Early evaluation provides the best chance for effective treatment regardless of the cause.
Severe pain in the lower abdomen, back, or sides may indicate kidney stones or infection that has spread to the kidneys. These conditions require immediate medical care to prevent complications. Treatment depends on the specific diagnosis but often includes pain management, antibiotics for infection, and sometimes procedures to remove or break up kidney stones.
Urinary symptoms accompanied by fever, chills, or confusion suggest a potential infection that has spread beyond the urinary tract. This condition, known as urosepsis, can become life-threatening without prompt treatment. Emergency care typically includes intravenous antibiotics and supportive measures while identifying and addressing the source of infection.
The future of male urinary healthOngoing research continues to advance understanding and treatment of male urinary problems. These developments offer hope for better outcomes and improved quality of life for the millions of men affected by these conditions.
New medications with fewer side effects are under development, targeting the causes of urinary symptoms more precisely than current options. These include drugs that combine multiple mechanisms of action to address complex urinary issues with single medications rather than requiring multiple prescriptions.
Technological advances in minimally invasive treatments continue to reduce recovery time and side effects while improving long-term outcomes. These include refinements of existing techniques as well as entirely new approaches that may provide relief with even less disruption to daily life.
Greater emphasis on preventive care and early intervention within the medical community promises to help men address urinary issues before they significantly impact quality of life. This shift includes improved screening protocols, better education for primary care providers, and public awareness campaigns to reduce stigma and encourage men to seek help sooner.
The growing recognition of the connection between urinary health and overall wellbeing has expanded treatment approaches to address not just physical symptoms but their psychological and social impacts as well. This holistic perspective leads to more comprehensive care and better outcomes for men dealing with these challenges.
With continued research, improved treatments, and greater awareness, the future holds promise for men affected by urinary problems. The key remains early recognition and prompt medical evaluation of changes in urinary function, allowing for intervention when treatments are most effective and least invasive.
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