After age 40 for reasons that may be hormonal, the prostrate gland begins to enlarge from 20grams. It may grow to 100 grams. This condition is called Benign Prostrate Hyperplasia (BPH).
According to the National Kidney Urological Disease Information Clearing House, the most common prostrate problem for men over 50 is prostrate enlargement. By age 60 over one half of men have BPH and by age 85 the number prostate to 90 percent.
The prostate gland, which is normally about the size and shape of a walnut, wraps around the urethra between the pubic bone and the rectum, below the bladder. In the early stage of prostate enlargement, the bladder muscle becomes thicker and forces urine through the narrowed urethra by contracting more powerfully. As a result, the bladder muscle may become more sensitive, causing a need to urinate more often and more suddenly. The prostate grows larger due to an increase in the number of cells (hyperplasia). However, the precise reason for this increase is unknown. A variety of factors may be involved, including androgens (male hormones), estrogens, growth factors and other cell signaling pathways. As the prostate grows larger and the urethra is squeezed more tightly, the bladder might not be able to fully compensate for the problem and completely empty. In some cases, blockage from prostate enlargement may cause repeated urinary tract infections and gradually result in bladder or kidney damage. It may also cause a sudden inability to urinate (acute urinary retention).
Symptoms
Many men with an enlarged prostate have no symptoms. If symptoms are present, they commonly include the following:
a weak stream of urine;
difficulty starting urination; dribbling of urine, especially after urinating;
a sense of not fully emptying the bladder;
leaking of urine;
more frequent urination and a strong and sudden desire to urinate, especially at night; and blood in the urine.
Treatment
Once the diagnosis of prostate enlargement is made, your doctor may not recommend immediate treatment if symptoms are mild. Likely, one or more exams will be conducted per year to be sure that you are not developing any complications from prostate enlargement. Should your symptoms become more severe, both medical and surgical treatments are available.
Some precautions can help to avoid worsening of symptoms of prostate enlargement and complications.
*Do not delay urination once you experience an urge.
*Urinate as soon as you feel the urge, and empty the bladder completely.<br>
Prevention
There is no known way to prevent prostate enlargement. It is a common part of aging. <br>
*Avoid drinking liquids after 6 p.m. to reduce the need to urinate frequently during the night.
*Drinking more fluid, up to eight glasses of water per day, may help prevent infection. However, for men already suffering with increased urinary frequency, this may only exacerbate the problem. In most cases, drinking a normal amount of fluid based on thirst is all that is necessary.
*There is evidence that cranberry juice may be helpful in the prevention of urinary tract infections in those who are prone to developing these.
*Foods that are rich in Zinc are good for men
*Over 40 men should go on brisk walking instead of jogging
*Men who sit for long hours are prone to prostrate symptoms.
*Men should avoid tight underwear. It impacts circulation around the groin and heats it up. Pant is a no for men. Wear boxers instead of panties.
*Avoid smoking. It affects blood vessels and impact circulation around the groin. <br>
*Regular sex is good for the prostrate.
Eventhough prostrate enlargement is a hormonal and ageing disease it is good to know that our men can reduce their risk of getting it. Take note;
if you experience fever/chills or nausea/vomiting, or if the prostate enlargement condition worsens and symptoms such as blood in the urine or lower back pain are present, consult a doctor immediately. If you cannot reach your doctor when these symptoms are present, seek evaluation at a hospital's emergency department.
For acute symptoms such as acute urinary retention (you cannot urinate), you should immediately go to the closest emergency medical facility.
Men over 50 years of age should have their prostate checked annually by their physician even if they have no symptoms.
Long live our men! Long live Ghana
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