Cancer Diseases,  Digestive System

Prostate Enlargement Can Cause Erectile Problems

The enlargement of the prostate is a significant health issue among men, especially in the older age group. This phenomenon is so common that it is considered more of a condition than a disease. Statistics indicate that many men may experience this problem, which tends to increase with age. There can be various causes for prostate enlargement, and while the symptoms may vary, they do not always pose a serious health risk.

Causes and Symptoms of Prostatitis

Prostatitis, which can be acute or chronic, often presents with pain, blood in urine, and erectile dysfunction. Almost always, some bacterial infection is behind these inflammations. Several factors can contribute to the development of prostatitis, such as a cool local environment, like sitting on a cold bench, or excessive alcohol consumption. The specific functioning of the prostate also plays a role, as the fluid produced by the gland is only expelled during ejaculation. Therefore, everyday situations where sexual stimulation does not lead to ejaculation can result in fluid accumulation, favoring the proliferation of bacteria.

Inflammatory processes can thus lead not only to painful symptoms but also negatively impact men’s sexual lives. The foundation of prostatitis treatment is a proper diagnosis, which typically occurs during a medical examination. It is important to consult a doctor when symptoms appear, as early intervention can help avoid more serious complications.

Characteristics of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is one of the most common prostate problems affecting men. In this case, the prostate cells begin to multiply under the influence of testosterone and estrogen, which is produced in increasing amounts with age, while losing the ability for programmed cell death. This process is typically benign, as the developing cells do not spread throughout the body and do not cause metastasis.

The enlarged prostate obstructs urine flow due to pressure on the urethra. As a result, various symptoms may arise, such as lower abdominal pain, pelvic discomfort, and erectile dysfunction, which are often the first signs of the problem. For men, these symptoms can be bothersome and significantly reduce quality of life.

Treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia is usually conducted with herbal remedies or specific medications. However, if symptoms worsen, surgical intervention may be necessary to relieve the urethra. Due to the complexity of the issues, treatment often requires collaboration between multiple specialists, such as urologists and internists.

To maintain prostate health, regular medical check-ups are important, especially for men entering older age. A healthy lifestyle, proper nutrition, and regular exercise can also contribute to maintaining prostate health.