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The prostate is a part of the male reproductive system that includes the penis, prostate, seminal vesicles, and testicles. It is located below the bladder and in front of the rectum. It surrounds the urethra (the tube that empties urine from the bladder) and is about the size of a walnut. It is responsible for producing fluid that makes up a part of semen.
With the ageing of men, the size of the prostate increases. It further causes the narrowing of the urethra, which decreases urine flow. Prostate-related issues have been observed in older men. The common symptoms include difficulty in urinating due to poor bladder control and weak urine flow.
Function of Prostate
Any individual does not require a functioning prostate for survival. However proper functioning of the prostate is important for fertility. The major function of the prostate is discussed below:
Major constituent of semen
Prostate glands contribute by producing 20%–30% of the fluid to the total semen volume. The remaining 5% is produced from seminal vesicles (50%-65%) and testicles (5%). The prostate fluid comprises certain components that make semen for the survival of sperm cells, along with other enzymes, zinc, and citric acid. One such important enzyme is prostate-specific antigen (PSA), which makes semen thin and more fluid.
Symptoms of Prostate-Related Issues
The inappropriate functioning of the prostate condition results in causing problems related to urination and bladder control. The following are some other issues related to prostate conditions:
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Poor bladder control involving frequent bathroom visits.
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Urge to urinate, sometimes with only a small amount of urine.
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Difficulty starting the urine stream or stopping and restarting it while urinating.
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Weak or thin urine stream.
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Not capable of emptying the bladder completely.
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Blood in the urine.
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Pain while urinating or after ejaculation.
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Pain in the penis or the region between the scrotum and anus.
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Urine with an unusual odour or colour.
Prostate problems also lead to problems related to sexual function, urinary tract infections, bladder stones, or severe cases, such as kidney failure. If the individual cannot urinate, it is recommended that they seek medical attention immediately.
Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among males. It has affected almost 1 in 8 males during their entire life. Most people have received a prostate cancer diagnosis at the age of 66. Individuals are recommended to undergo prostate cancer screening depending on their age and risk factors and should be aware of the potential risks of testing beforehand. To know more about Prostate cancer, visit our urology hospital in Mangalore.
Prostatitis
Prostatitis is a condition characterised by infection/inflammation of the prostate gland. It is the most common prostate problem among males belonging to the age group of 50. Approximately 10%–15% of males are suffering from prostatitis.
Acute prostatitis is a sudden inflammation of the prostate. It mainly occurs due to a bacterial infection secondary to an immunocompromised state like diabetes. In the event that prostate inflammation lasts for more than 3 months, it is known as Chronic Prostatitis.
Enlarged Prostate
An enlarged prostate condition, known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is a common prostate problem among males in the 50+ age group. The persistence of this condition results in the weakening of the bladder and its inability to empty it appropriately. This condition also results in causing difficulty urinating and, in rare cases, prevents urination. If the condition is getting worse, you must visit a urologist in Mangalore for a consultation.
Prostate Medical Tests
Some of the common medical examinations for diagnosing prostate problems include the following medical tests:
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Digital rectal examination
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Prostate-specific antigen (PSA)
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Prostate biopsy
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Prostate ultrasound (TRUS)
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Prostate MRI
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