Conditions that affect the prostate:
Over time, your prostate may start to enlarge, and early on can be asymptomatic. This happens for around age 40, although it affects a higher percentage of men around age 55. The larger size increases the risk of conditions like:
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
Also known as enlarged prostate, this is a common, noncancerous condition that while not life threatening can affect your ability to urinate by putting pressure on your bladder’s base. This can create obstructions in the urinary tract that lead to urinary retention.
Prostatitis
This inflammation of your prostate can come in the form of bacterial prostatitis or non-bacterial prostatitis and is common in men from 30 to 50. The cause is frequently unknown, and the nonbacterial type is both more common and harder to treat because the symptoms vary from person to person.
Prostate cancer
More common in men over 50, its overall cause is often unknown, but family history and age generally play a role. While early stages are confined to the prostate, as it develops and becomes more aggressive, it can spread to other systems and become more dangerous to your whole body.
Ways to keep your prostate healthy
Here are some ways to keep a healthy prostate to prevent these diseases:
- Exercise regularly: Physical activity can help to reduce the chances of your prostate getting larger as you age.
- Keep a healthy weight: Keeping your weight under control helps to reduce the pressure on your bladder and reduce the likelihood of a change in your prostate.
- Maintain a healthy diet: Fruits, vegetables, and healthy proteins can make a big difference in your prostate health.
- Stop using tobacco products: Smoking and other tobacco products can increase your risk of prostate cancer, so quit now.
- Get regular screenings: Schedule an appointment with your primary care provider to determine you screening needs.
For more information, contact our QMG Urology department at (217) 222‑6550, ext. 3894.
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