What is the prostate?
The prostate is a male gland located immediately below
the bladder. After the age of 50, the prostate may increase in size and thus
create problems.
What alterations can take place in the prostate?
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Hypertrophy: the increase in size of the prostate due to growth of new tissue
(benign) known as adenoma . As the prostate grows, it exerts pressure on the
urethra and interferes with the normal emptying of urine.
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Prostatitis: This is the infection of the prostate gland. In addition to the
discomfort associated with an infection it can also give rise to symptoms of a
hypertrophy and a burning sensation may appear when urinating and/or
ejaculating.
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Cancer:
Although the prostate cancer can manifest symptoms of obstruction, it is often
asymptomatic in its early stages. The location of the prostate allows the
doctor to feel it easily. All males over 50 years old, must have an annual
check-up performed by an urologist (early detection of cancer). Roughly 90% of
prostate cancers can be detected in this way.
How does one know he has a prostate problem?
You could notice an increase in the frequency of
urinations during the day or experience sudden urges to urinate at night
forcing you to get out of bed regularly. You may experience difficulty to begin
to urinate or notice a lack of strength in the urine trickle. If these symptoms
have gone unnoticed, you could experience a urine retention (inability to
urinate). The specialist can request medical tests in order to confirm the
diagnosis such as blood test, specific prostate tests (PSA), urine tests and an
ecography. In some cases, a flujometria and rectal tact may also be necessary.
What should one do when the symptoms appear?
To prevent them from worsening, do not drink in excess, lead a healthy
lifestyle and urinate as soon as you feel the need (do not prevent yourself
from doing so). If symptoms persist and worsen it will be necessary to follow
an urgent treatment in order to avoid damaging to the bladder and the kidneys.
Visit your urologist and seek professional assistance.
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