The prostate is a small, essential gland that’s a common source of concern for many men as they age because of its importance to sexual health. At the Center for Sexual & Anti-Aging Medicine, with offices in Phoenix, Globe, and Show Low, Arizona, experienced physician Peter Niemczyk, MD, FACS, helps evaluate, diagnose, and treat a number of conditions affecting the prostate. If you’re looking for help managing your prostate health, schedule an appointment online or by phone today.
The prostate gland is a male reproductive organ that’s essential to reproduction and sexual health. It’s partly responsible for the production of seminal fluid and enzymes that help protect and prolong the life of sperm. The prostate is also a muscular gland and helps propel seminal fluid through the urethra during ejaculation.
Your prostate gland grows larger as you age, and while this isn’t always a problem, a growing prostate gland can increase your risk for a number of conditions. Although the most common prostate concern is cancer, issues with prostate health aren’t always related to cancer. The most common prostate conditions include:
Benign prostatic hyperplasia, also known as an enlarged prostate, is a common condition that affects over 3 million men every year. Because the prostate enlarges with age, it can eventually lead to pain and discomfort for some men. Risk factors for an enlarged prostate include:
As your prostate becomes too large, it can cause symptoms like frequent urination, blood in the urine, urinary tract infections (UTIs), and can even cause an inability to urinate altogether. Depending on your symptoms, Dr. Niemczyk can recommend a number of treatment methods, including medication, surgical therapy, transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), and minimally invasive procedures like Rezum and UroLift®.
Acute bacterial prostatitis is a bacterial infection that causes swelling of the prostate gland. This bacterial infection can range in intensity and cause symptoms like fever, pain, and painful or difficult urination. Pelvic pain or painful ejaculation are signs that it's time to see Dr. Niemczyk as acute bacterial prostatitis gets worse over time. Although it can be quite painful, acute bacterial prostatitis is generally cured with antibiotics.
Although not the most common prostate condition, prostate cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer that affects men. There are different types of prostate cancer, some slow growing and not requiring treatment, and others that are aggressive and quick to spread.
In general, symptoms of prostate cancer may include:
When detected early and still confined, prostate cancer can be treated successfully. Treatment for prostate cancer includes radiation therapy, hormone therapy, and prostatectomies. Because prostate cancer can be difficult to notice, it's essential that you see an expert like Dr. Niemczyk regularly for screenings and evaluations of any symptoms you’re experiencing.
The first step in addressing your prostate issues is an evaluation with a men’s health specialist like Dr. Niemczyk. Screening for prostate conditions can include:
Discussing your concerns with Dr. Niemczyk can help you manage your risks and take steps to ensure the health of your prostate. To get insight on your personal prostate health, call Center for Sexual and Urinary Function or schedule an appointment online today.
