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How to check your prostate and what problems to look out for, according to a doctor

This tiny organ can cause 'lots of problems' to those who have it. Here's what you should know.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Contact a qualified medical professional before engaging in any physical activity, or making any changes to your diet, medication or lifestyle.

Prostate disease and treatment. Male reproductive system anatomical model in doctors hands close-up during consultation of male patient with suspected bacterial prostatitis
Prostate disease and treatment. Male reproductive system anatomical model in doctors hands close-up during consultation of male patient with suspected bacterial prostatitis

Many men have no idea what their prostate is, what it does or when to seek medical attention if they think they have a problem.

And while prostate cancer is one of the main issues that affects the gland, there are other prostate conditions that can impact someone's quality of life.

In late January, King Charles underwent surgery to treat his enlarged prostate, after being diagnosed with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

During treatment on his prostate, King Charles' doctors found another issue and further testing identified cancer. "It is understood that the King has been diagnosed with cancer elsewhere in his body, not of the prostate," CBS News reported.

But, prior to his cancer diagnosis, NBC News reported that a source from the palace noted the King "was keen to share the details of his (enlarged prostate) diagnosis to encourage other men who may be experiencing symptoms to get checked, in line with public health advice."

In a 2022 interview with Yahoo Canada, Dr. Danny Vesprini, a radiation oncologist at Toronto's Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, said that while the prostate isn't large (about the size of a walnut), its nature and location "certainly causes lots of problems."

More than half of Canadian men in their 60s and as many as 90 per cent of men in their 70s and 80s have some symptoms of BPH. Read on to learn more about the prostate, it's common issues and how you might be able to prevent discomfort.


The prostate is a gland that produces enzymes and proteins in the body. (Photo via Getty Images)
The prostate is a gland that produces enzymes and proteins in the body. (Photo via Getty Images)

What is the prostate?

The prostate is a gland that produces enzymes and proteins in the body. It's part of the reproductive system and rests below a man's bladder.

"The main goal of the prostate is that it produces between 60 to 80 per cent of a man's ejaculate and, in particular, creates an enzyme called prostate specific antigen, or PSA," said Vesprini. "What that enzyme does is liquify the coagulum in the vagina to help with reproduction. So it allows sperm to swim more freely in the vagina."

The oncologist added that it's an important gland for us to procreate, but doesn't have many other functions.


Common prostate problems

According to Vesprini, the most common problem most men experience is that the prostate continues to grow, which leads to problems with urination and incontinence.

"It's one of the few parts of the body that still grows as we get old. And as men get older, they start to have more difficulties with urinating," he added. "That's why older men get up to pee at night because they aren't emptying their bladder sufficiently during the day."

As such, men can experience a slower flow of their urine and "they start to spray a bit, which can be a bit of a nuisance."

Although these symptoms aren't serious medical issues, Vespirini said they can impact a man's confidence and quality of life.

"As we get older and the prostate gets bigger, the bladder may not empty fully and the flow starts to slow down, which is annoying but it's common and there’s lots of remedies," Vesprini added.

Prostatitis is inflammation of the prostate gland that can cause symptoms such as painful urination and general discomfort. (Photo via Getty Images)
Prostatitis is inflammation of the prostate gland that can cause symptoms such as painful urination and general discomfort. (Photo via Getty Images)

Warning signs of prostatitis or BPH

In addition to common urinary problems, prostatitis or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) are more serious conditions that can affect the prostate.

Prostatitis is inflammation of the prostate gland that can cause symptoms such as painful urination and general discomfort in the groin, pelvis or genitals.

"It can be very uncomfortable and disruptive by causing pain or sexual dysfunction," Vesprini said.

On the other hand, BPH, or an overly enlarged prostate, usually affects men over the age of 40. As it grows, the prostate can block the flow of urine and cause bladder, urinary tract or kidney problems.

"Signs of BPH are difficulty urinating, a weak stream, or having a frequent need to urinate," explained Vesprini.

Drinking less fluids in the evening can help ease BPH symptoms. (Photo via Getty Images)
Drinking less fluids in the evening can help ease BPH symptoms. (Photo via Getty Images)

Remedies for prostate issues

When it comes to home remedies for prostate issues like BPH, the most common thing to do is to change your habits.

"Stop drinking in the evening or don't drink lots of fluid before bed, which lessens the amount of times you're urinating at night," Vesprini suggested.

If that doesn't provide relief, there are medications that help the bladder empty more sufficiently, or medications that shrink the prostate over time.

"For more serious cases, there are surgical procedures that can be done, but it has risks," Vesprini added.

For prostatitis, the oncologist says that anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen or Advil sometimes help, or the use of antibiotics can settle things down.

"Some men find that different foods or certain activities also trigger symptoms and thus they avoid those, but that's unique to each person and you'll have to go through a trial and error process to figure it out," he explained.

an older man outside running in a red shirt with headphones in
Everyone should work towards having a healthy heart, eating well, and exercising frequently. (Photo via Getty Images)

Can I prevent prostate issues?

"You can't really prevent prostate problems, and something like BPH is just a natural evolution. The only way to prevent it from happening is to have no testosterone, which is what triggers the prostate to grow over time," Vesprini said.

Moreover, Vesprini added that as urinary problems and BPH is a normal part of aging, it's abnormal for a man in his 70s or 80s to not have experienced any of these problems.

In general, the doctor said that in order to be your best self, work towards having a healthy heart, having a good diet and exercising frequently.

"It's very important to keep on top of your overall health, and don't turn to quick fixes," Vesprini concluded. "Be aware of any changes in your body, and get screened if you suspect any issues."

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