Prostate diseases are important health problems that are common in men, especially after the age of 40, and directly affect urinary function. The prostate gland is located just below the bladder and surrounds the urinary channel (urethra). For this reason, even the smallest enlargement, inflammation or mass in the prostate can significantly affect urine flow.
Main groups of prostate diseases
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH): the narrowing of the urinary channel as a result of enlargement of the prostate with age.
- Prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate): develops due to infection or inflammation. It can be acute or chronic.
- Prostate cancer: occurs with the uncontrolled proliferation of prostate cells and may not cause symptoms in the early stages.
Symptoms
Prostate diseases can present with similar complaints:
- Difficulty urinating
- Weak urine stream
- Frequent urination (especially at night)
- Feeling of not fully emptying the bladder
- Delay in starting urination
- Blood in the urine in advanced cases
The importance of diagnosis
Because the symptoms of prostate diseases are similar to one another, an accurate diagnosis is critically important. For this purpose:
- PSA test
- Physical examination (rectal examination)
- Ultrasonography
- MRI and biopsy if necessary
are used.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does every man get prostate disease?
No. The risk increases with age, but it does not occur in every man.
Are urinary problems a sign of prostate disease?
Yes. Especially after the age of 40, it is the most common sign of prostate disease.
Does prostate enlargement turn into cancer?
No. BPH is benign and does not turn into cancer, but the two can occur together.
Can prostate diseases be treated?
Yes. Successful results are achieved with medication, interventional methods and surgery.
Clinical Summary
Prostate diseases are among the urological problems that most affect quality of life in men. Early diagnosis is critically important both for controlling urinary complaints and for the early detection of prostate cancer.
