Protect Your Prostate Now

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The Prostate Gland 
The prostate gland plays an important role in the male reproductive system. Around the size of a walnut, the reproductive gland produces fluid that mixes with the semen during male ejaculation. The fluid produced is essential in nourishing and transporting the sperm that is ejaculated when a man is sexually aroused.

Prostate Enlargement 
Also known as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), prostate enlargement is very common among aging men. An oversized prostate gland is diagnosed through a digital rectal exam where the doctor uses his fingers to feel the prostate gland. The likelihood of developing BPH increases with age.
As a result of the enlargement, the prostate gland will press against the urethra which may lead to urine flow restriction. The urinary bladder walls may also start to contract even if it is not full yet. Due to these unnecessary contractions, the urinary bladder weakens and will eventually lose the ability to empty itself.

Signs and Symptoms
The narrowed urethra and weak bladder causes the symptoms in prostate enlargement. Symptoms include incontinence, urinary retention, recurrent urinary tract infections, bladder stones or even kidney failure. Nocturia or frequent urination at night is also observed. If not treated on time, BPH may lead to a more serious chronic kidney disease.

Treatments
Treatments for BPH vary, ranging from pharmaceutical drugs to herbal treatments. Herbs that are proven effective in treating prostate enlargement include pygeum, saw palmetto, rye pollen and stinging nettle. Plant extracts like lycopene, daidzein, genistein, rosaminic acid, betasitosterol and quercetin are proving to be promising in treating BPH.

Lifestyle Changes
To prevent the occurrence of prostate enlargement, simple lifestyle changes can be applied. These changes include reducing one’s fluid intake, limiting alcohol and caffeine consumption and using the bathroom as soon one feels the need to pass urine.