When men reach the age of 40, the most common physical changes that are thought of by the vast majority are grey hair and expansion of the waistline, but what is usually forgotten is the health of the prostate of these men.
In a recent statistical report, it was reflected that around the globe, 1 out of every 8 men will develop prostate problems in the course of their lives, and the second most common cancer in men, in comparison to any other cancer, is prostate cancer after lung cancer. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), in an article titled The Silent Killer: A Review of Prostate Cancer in India states that the incidences of prostate cancer have almost doubled over the past 10 years, particularly in urban India.
One of the top Urologists in Delhi, Dr. Vipin Tyagi, encourages men to take better care of their prostate after they get past 40, mainly because this small gland, the size of a walnut at the bottom of the bladder, causes a lot of trouble concerning reproductive health as it may become a real hindrance to your flow, literally and figuratively speaking.
So, what are the best natural things to do to keep the prostate healthy, and what are the common ones out there that simply allow it to grow? But let us break them down in an unimposing and awkward-free kind of way.
The prostate is a glandular organ, located just below the bladder, where it surrounds the urethra (the passage that takes away urine). Its main function is to generate seminal fluid, the substances that assist sperm in perambulation and nourishment.
Prostate enlargement is a normal process in men, and as men grow older, the prostate enlarges; hence, this condition is known as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia(BPH). Although non-cancerous, it has been shown to induce uncomfortable urinary issues, and because of this, at times, the indicators show the signs of prostate cancer.
Getting the answers on what is normal and what is not, and when it is time to consult a specialist, is the first step towards taking control of your prostate health.
Dr. Vipin Tyagi lists the three most widespread problems that men encounter as follows:
Benign prostatic hyperplasia is commonly referred to as the swelling of the prostate gland. The symptoms of BPH include urination fairly often (especially at night), feeling the urine stream as weak, the inability to start or stop urination, and feeling that the bladder is not empty completely.
Prostatitis or prostate inflammation is a condition that is exhibited by symptoms such as pelvic pain, painful urination, painful ejaculation, and flu-type symptoms. Men less than 50 years old commonly have it.
Prostate cancer is prevalent in men over the age of 50, although it is important to detect it in the 40s, especially when it runs in the family. Symptoms of prostate cancer include blood in urine/semen, inability to have an erection, difficulty in passing. They are usually asymptomatic during the initial periods, and this is why screening is essential.
Fact: Prostate diseases, particularly cancer, are likely to progress without manifested symptoms in the initial phases.
Dr. Vipin Tyagi states that the silence does not imply safety. Men with 40 or more years of life do not have to be in pain and symptoms before they act. Regular checking, particularly among individuals who have a past history of prostate concerns, can help detect conditions at their early stages, which are easiest to treat. For the screening, the Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test and a Digital Rectal Exam (DRE) are the gold standard screening standards. Although the DRE may sound frightening, it is painless, easy, and could be life-saving.
Fact: Contemporary medicine is specific and rapidly developing.
Days whereby prostate surgery was a sure way to lose either sexual or bladder functionality are long gone. Dr. Vipin Tyagi himself, being a huge expert in the field of urological oncology, highlights that the surgery assisted by robots, radiations, and hormone therapies is much advanced nowadays, having fewer side-effects and an improved quality of life. Not every prostate cancer requires vigorous therapy. They are so slow-growing that only active surveillance (having frequent tests and scans) is required.
Just talking about big prevention and lifestyle-wise changes will not help from the development of prostate issues; an individual must take some measures to ensure their prostate stays healthy:
Engaging in more exercise prevents weight fluctuations and hormone balance. The risk of BPH and prostate cancer can be minimised by brisk walking, even though it is just 30 minutes per day.
Pay attention to your diet: include tomatoes (high in lycopene), leafy greens, nuts, fish, and berries are the best foods you can give to your prostate. Do not consume high-fat meat, processed junk, and excessive dairy products, as these are related to an increased risk.
Drink water, without chugging gallons just prior to going to bed. Reduction of caffeine and alcohol, particularly at night time would contribute to this change by alleviating the frequency of urination.
Prostate examinations should be administered on a yearly basis on men above 40 years, even in the absence of signs. The sooner the better, the greater the chance of complete recovery.
Men above 40 years must consider visiting a urologist, such as Dr. Vipin Tyagi, in case they have come across the following symptoms:
Still, it is always a good idea to consult with a specialist, even when you feel ok, especially in case you have a family history of prostate-related issues and diseases.
Taking care of your prostate health need not be taboo. It cannot be about being macho; it is about being mindful. Regular tests and screening, a couple of changes in lifestyle, and a periodic visit to a reliable urologist such as Dr. Vipin Tyagi can do wonders. By the time you are 40 plus, you need to start taking responsibility for your health by ceasing to ignore the evidence and remember! The sooner you start prioritising your health, the sooner you get a better result; hence, for proper diagnostic care and treatment, book an appointment with Dr. Vipin Tyagi today.