The prostate gland, a small gland located just below the bladder in men, plays a crucial role in producing a sticky fluid that aids in semen formation. After the age of 50, the prostate gland tends to enlarge rapidly, a condition known as Benign Enlargement of Prostate (BEP). This enlargement can lead to urinary issues, often mistaken as a normal part of aging. It is important to note that BEP is not the same as prostate cancer, though both can present similar symptoms.
As the prostate gland enlarges, it can obstruct the urethra, leading to various urinary problems such as frequent urination (often more than 10 times a day), urgency, difficulty in starting urination, dribbling at the end of urination, and a feeling of incomplete bladder emptying. In severe cases, acute urinary retention can occur, leading to complications like hydronephrosis and kidney failure if not treated promptly.
Diagnosis of prostate issues involves a digital rectal exam by a physician, ultrasound of the kidneys, bladder, and prostate, uroflowmetry to assess urine flow, and blood tests like PSA to differentiate between BEP and prostate cancer. Treatment options range from lifestyle modifications and medication to surgical procedures like transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) or laser surgery, depending on the severity of symptoms.
Prevention strategies include maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fiber, regular exercise, avoiding excessive red meat, processed foods, sugary drinks, smoking, and alcohol. Men over 50 should consider regular PSA tests and those with a family history of cancer should get tested for BRCA gene mutations. Patients on medication for BEP should consult their urologist before discontinuing any drugs and avoid excessive fluid intake in the evening.
