The prostate gland is a male sex organ located below the bladder and
around the urethra [yur-E-thra]. During sexual activity, it produces a fluid that
combines with sperm to form semen. In men over age 50, the prostate
gland often becomes enlarged. This can cause blockage of the urethra,
which is the tube urine flows through from the bladder to the penis.
Symptoms of an enlarged prostate usually begin with difficulty in
urination, a frequent urge to urinate, especially at night, and dripping
after urination. It may progress to the point where you may not be able
to fully eliminate your bladder. If the urine isn't released, kidney damage
may result. To avoid these complications, males should begin having
the prostate checked annually after age 45. Your doctor can perform a
rectal examination to check for changes in the prostate and may
measure how much urine is left in the bladder following urination. The
doctor determines this by injecting a harmless dye into a vein. The dye
will outline the bladder, making it visible on an X-ray. Your doctor may
prescribe medication to shrink the enlargement and relieve the
discomfort. If symptoms become severe, surgery may be necessary. Various options are available, but the most common procedure is transurethral [trans-your-E-thrul] resection of the prostate in which the core of the prostate is removed. If you are
experiencing a weak stream of urine and a frequent urge to urinate, you
should schedule an appointment with a urologist. If you feel bloated and
have an intense need to urinate and can't do so, you may need to go to
the emergency room immediately. For more information on prostate
enlargement, please contact a healthcare provider.
