Older men are more at risk of suffering from an enlarge prostate. If there is a delay in the treatment of the problem, it will hinder the flow of urine from the bladder. This will result in urinary tract infections, bladder problems and it may cause kidney problems.
The prostate gland is a male organ which produces the bulk of the fluid in semen. It is placed beneath the bladder. The tube that allows urine to pass from your bladder out of your penis is called the urethra. This passes through the center of the prostate. As soon as the gland enlarges, this passage shrinks and obstructs the urine flow. The cause of this condition is not fully understood, however, the imbalance of sex hormones as men age may be a cause.
The infection may worsen if not treated. One of the symptoms is if you have to strain to urinate. You may also experience problems when you try to start urinating. Another symptom is if there are intermittent breaks in urination. The urgent need to urinate often may also be present. You may feel that your bladder has not been emptied sufficiently.
Blood might be present in the urine and you may suffer from a urinary tract infection. There could also be the formation of bladder stones as well as impaired kidney function. Those who are most at risk are older men. Men under the age of 40 rarely exhibit symptoms whereas about half the number of men in their 60s will have some symptoms. If there is a family history with this problem, then you will be prone to it. This condition is more prevalent among white and black males.
There are many tests that your doctor will do to determine the exact problem. He may perform a digital rectal examination by inserting his finger into your rectum. This will enable the doctor to check if your gland is enlarged and also to check for signs of cancer. A urine test will also be done. Your doctor may also do a urinary flow test. A biopsy will be done to diagnose or rule out cancer.
This enlargement becomes a serious matter when it becomes very difficult for you to empty your bladder. If you reach a point where you are unable to urinate at all, your doctor may have to use a catheter to allow the draining of your bladder. This involves either threading a tube through your urethra or inserting a tube through your lower abdomen.
When your bladder has not been totally emptied for a period of time, it could cause damage. The weight of a full bladder will create pressure on your kidneys. This could cause kidney damage or infection may be transferred to your kidneys.
Your doctor will normally prescribe medication for an enlarge prostate. If the medication does not alleviate the problem, then surgery may be your next option. There are also herbal treatments for this infection. You can prevent this infection if you urinate when you have the need to. Do not use antihistamines or decongestants for long periods. They cause tightness of the muscles that control flow while urinating.
Get the inside skinny on all you need to know about common Prostate Problems now in our Enlarged Prostate Symptoms and signs guide.
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