Prostate Cancer: Seven Warning Signs You Should Never Ignore

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – As an article published on the CUF hospital website explains, the prostate is a small male gland, the size and shape of a walnut. It is located below the bladder and opposite the rectum, around the urethra. Its function is to produce a white liquid and fluid that is part of sperm. As one ages, the prostate tends to increase in size (it is unknown exactly why) and when it becomes enlarged it may cause health issues.

You should see a doctor if you spot any of the following symptoms.

– Need to urinate frequently;

– Waking up several times during the night to urinate;

– Blood in urine or semen;

– Pain or burning when urinating;

– Pain when ejaculating;

– Frequent pain or stiffness in the lower back, hips, pelvic area, rectum or thighs;

– involuntary loss of urine.

The most common prostate problems, according to CUF are listed below:

Benign prostatic hyperplasia

Very common in men aged 55 and over, it occurs when the prostate is enlarged. Annual monitoring by the attending physician may be sufficient; if treatment is required, the attending physician may prescribe medication to help reduce the size of the gland or to relax the muscles around it, or even surgery.

Acute bacterial prostatitis

It originates from a bacterial infection and appears suddenly. If you develop fever, chills or pain in combination with the above symptoms, particularly difficulty urinating, see your doctor. Most of these cases are treated with antibiotics and medicines to ease pain or discomfort.

Chronic bacterial prostatitis

This infection is recurrent: it is constantly appearing and disappearing and may be difficult to treat; prolonged antibiotic use may be indicated.

Chronic prostatitis

It can cause pain in the lower back, groin or penis. Treatment may involve a combination of drugs, surgery, and lifestyle changes.

Prostate Cancer

The probability of developing prostate cancer can be influenced by several factors: age (men over 50 have a higher risk), family history (if the father or sibling has it, the risk is higher), diet, which when rich in fat increases the probability of its development.

Tips to prevent prostate disorders

As CUF explains, prostate disorders are naturally associated with aging to some extent. However, there are a number of strategies you can adopt to maintain this gland healthier, such as:

– Following a diet rich in fruit and vegetables.

– Eat omega-3-rich fatty fish and foods rich in good fats such as avocado, nuts and olives.

– Avoid processed foods rich in sugar and saturated fat. Stay well hydrated by drinking water.

– Drink tea, namely green and hibiscus, both rich in antioxidants. However, choosing caffeine-free tea is important, as it may upset the prostate and bladder.

– Have good intimate hygiene practices, keeping the genitals clean.

– Practice physical exercise and control your weight.

– Managing stress well: stress can lead to unconscious and persistent contraction of the pelvic muscles, which in the long run may lead to prostate disorders. Try therapy, meditation or exercises like yoga or tai chi.