The prostate check every man should know about: Doctor explains

Prostate disorders are among the most common health concerns affecting older men. The prostate, a small gland located just below the urinary bladder, undergoes several changes as men age. The most common of these is benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), an enlargement of the prostate. Other conditions affecting the gland include prostatitis, an infection or inflammation of the prostate and prostate cancer. Dr Renu Thomas, Senior Consultant and Coordinator, Urology, KIMS Health, Thiruvananthapuram, explains the symptoms, robotic surgeries and everyday habits that can help handle the condition. 

Symptoms
The symptoms of prostate disorders are most often related to urination. Frequent urination, particularly at night, a weak urinary stream, the sensation of incomplete bladder emptying, difficulty in passing urine and a sudden, urgent need to urinate are among the most common symptoms. In some cases, blood may also appear in the urine.

Many older men tend to dismiss these symptoms as an inevitable part of ageing and delay seeking medical attention. However, timely evaluation is essential for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

Medication and surgery
In most cases of benign prostate enlargement, medications can provide considerable relief. Doctors commonly prescribe drugs that improve urine flow and help reduce prostate size. However, surgery may become necessary when symptoms persist despite medical treatment.

Prostate cancer, on the other hand, often progresses silently without causing noticeable symptoms in its early stages. This makes regular health check-ups particularly important for men over 50. Those with a family history of prostate cancer, especially in close relatives, should be more vigilant.

Robotic surgery
Robotic radical prostatectomy has become a widely used surgical option for prostate cancer worldwide. One of the major advantages of this technique is its ability to preserve delicate nerves and surrounding tissues with enhanced precision, helping reduce complications related to urinary control and sexual function. As the procedure is performed through smaller incisions, it involves less blood loss and pain and enables patients to return to their normal routine sooner.

However, surgery is not required for every prostate cancer patient. In some cases, active surveillance may be sufficient, while others may require radiation therapy or hormone therapy. The choice of treatment depends on factors such as the stage of the disease, the patient's age and other existing health conditions.

Everyday habits that help
Certain lifestyle changes can help maintain prostate health:
a) Drink adequate amounts of water.
b) Avoid excessive fluid intake late at night.
c) Exercise regularly.
d) Keep diabetes and blood pressure under control.
e) Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption.