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The prostate is a small gland in men, located just below the bladder and in front of the rectum. It produces seminal fluid and plays a crucial role in the male reproductive system. As men becomes older, prostate issues become increasingly common. Recognizing the signs and symptoms early can lead to quicker diagnosis and better outcomes. 

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Here’s what you should look out for:

1. Urinary problems

One of the most common early signs of prostate issues involves changes in urination. Men may experience difficulty starting urination, a weak or interrupted urine stream, or a frequent need to urinate, especially at night (nocturia). Some men also feel an urgent need to urinate or may experience a sensation that their bladder is not fully emptied even after going to the bathroom.

2. Pain or discomfort

Pain can occur in the lower back, hips, pelvis, or upper thighs. This discomfort may be constant or may worsen when sitting, especially if the prostate is enlarged or inflamed. Painful urination (dysuria) or pain during ejaculation can also be signs of prostate problems such as prostatitis or prostate infections.

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3. Blood in urine or semen

Hematuria (blood in urine) or hematospermia (blood in semen) can sometimes be a symptom of prostate issues. While these symptoms can result from other conditions, such as infections or injuries, they should never be ignored and always warrant medical evaluation.

4. Erectile dysfunction

Prostate issues, particularly prostate cancer or treatments for prostate conditions, can interfere with sexual function. Men may experience difficulties achieving or maintaining an erection. Although erectile dysfunction can have many causes, persistent problems alongside other urinary symptoms could suggest a prostate concern.

5. Painful ejaculation

Pain during or after ejaculation is another warning sign that may point to an inflamed prostate (prostatitis) or other prostate-related conditions. This symptom is often overlooked but can be a significant indicator of underlying problems.

6. General symptoms of illness

In cases of acute prostatitis, men may experience fever, chills, body aches, and fatigue, along with urinary symptoms. These signs of infection require prompt medical treatment to avoid serious complications.

When to Seek Medical Advice

While some mild urinary symptoms might result from benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate, more severe or persistent symptoms could point to more serious conditions like prostate cancer. It is crucial to consult a healthcare provider if you experience any of the above symptoms, especially if they worsen over time.

Early detection of prostate problems often allows for a wider range of treatment options and better outcomes. Regular check-ups, including prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing and sometimes digital rectal exams (DRE), are recommended for men starting at age 50, or earlier if there is a family history of prostate issues.

Conclusion

Prostate health is an important aspect of overall well-being for men, particularly as they age. Recognizing early signs and symptoms of prostate issues – such as urinary changes, pain, blood in urine or semen, and sexual dysfunction – can lead to timely diagnosis and effective treatment. Staying informed and proactive with regular medical check-ups can make all the difference in maintaining prostate health and quality of life.

This article has been fact-checked by Dr Chong Kian Tai, urologist at Surgi-TEN Specialists, Farrer Park Hospital, Singapore.

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