4 Age-Related Prostate Problems You Should Know About

There are many inescapable things in life, and that includes growing old. Indeed, no matter how well you take care of yourself, there’s no stopping the clock—you will age, whether you like it or not. And as you age, you’ll experience changes in the body that may sometimes lead to health issues. For men, in particular, the prostate can be an area of concern. While it’s a small body part, the prostate can have a big impact on your health and quality of life if it develops problems later on.

Here are some age-related prostate problems that most men should know about, so you know what to do in case they happen:

Prostate Gland Enlargement

Unlike most body parts and organs, the prostate gland continues to grow even after puberty. In fact, the prostate has two growth phases: one in puberty and one at around age 25. This is, of course, very normal and rather harmless.

However, there are times when the prostate gets a little too large, causing it to compress the urethra and thicken the bladder wall. This is called benign prostate hyperplasia or BPH. As its name implies, the condition is benign and therefore non-cancerous. However, it can lead to other problems like urinary retention, in which the bladder is unable to completely empty itself. You may also be more prone to urinary tract infection, bladder stones, and decreased kidney function.

Fortunately, BPH is treatable through various methods, including medications, surgery, and laser therapy. Depending on the severity of the condition, you may not even require any treatment at all. However, you need to carefully monitor your health and talk to your doctor immediately once the symptoms show up.

Prostatitis

Another age-related prostate problem is prostatitis or the inflammation or swelling of the prostate gland, a condition that is usually caused by bacteria. It happens more often in men aged 50 and older, although it can also occur at any age.

A case of bacterial prostatitis, which often happens because of bacteria spreading from the reproductive or urinary system, can either be acute or chronic. For acute bacterial prostatitis, a full course of antibiotics is usually enough for treatment. Meanwhile, chronic bacterial prostatitis may be more difficult to handle, though do note that this is rare and doesn’t usually happen unless you didn’t finish your treatment for acute bacterial prostatitis.

There are also non-bacterial cases of prostatitis like chronic prostatitis, also called chronic pelvic pain syndrome. Its symptoms include pain in the lower back, the groin, and even the top of the penis. While the cause of chronic prostatitis isn’t well-understood, there’s some evidence that previous infections, irregular hormone activity, and nervous system problems contribute to its development. 

Finally, there’s also asymptomatic inflammatory prostatitis. Like chronic prostatitis, the cause of this condition isn’t clear to experts just yet. Usually, it’s only discovered after follow-up exams when other medical conditions aren’t treated.

Prostate Cancer

One of the more concerning age-related prostate problems is prostate cancer. It’s one of the most common cancers globally, after breast, lung, and colon cancers. Fortunately, many cases of prostate cancer are mild and confined to the prostate gland. Therefore, such cases are less harmful and much easier to treat. That said, there are also more aggressive types of prostate cancer that spread quickly and are more difficult to treat.

Ideally, men should undergo prostate cancer screenings yearly once they reach age 50. You should also get yourself checked regularly if you have BPH, regardless of age. Symptoms-wise, watch out for blood in the urine or semen, pain during urination and ejaculation, as well as persistent aches in your back or hip.

Low Testosterone

Finally, another common prostate-related issue that comes with age is lower levels of testosterone. This hormone is responsible for many bodily functions in men, including bone and muscle development. In addition, testosterone plays an important role in sperm production.

Some effects of lower testosterone levels are not inherently harmful but can have an impact on one’s confidence and quality of life. Examples of these effects include a reduced sex drive, erectile dysfunction, hair loss, depression, fatigue, and sleeping difficulties. Having low testosterone can also result in reduced body mass and weaker bones.

If you’re feeling some or all of the symptoms above, consult your doctor right away. You may be prescribed testosterone replacement therapy, which can be delivered through methods like skin patches, gels, or injections.

The human body is like a machine. No matter how well-oiled and well-maintained it is, it will grow old and inevitably experience wear and tear. As such, it’s important to be aware of age-related issues that you may encounter so you can address them ASAP. For men, these issues include those that affect the prostate. Take note of these four conditions for early detection, proper diagnosis, and prompt treatment.