Prostate trouble

Between us men: Prostate trouble?

If you can answer yes to one or more of the following questions, chances are that you are suffering from BPH (Benign Prostate Hypertrophy) or enlargement of the prostate in the absence of malignancy.

1. Abnormally low volume of urine voided each time?
2. Feeling that bladder is not completely empty after urination?
3. Dribbling after urination?
4. Have to get up often during the night to urinate?
5. Do you feel the urge to urinate within two hours after previous urination?
6. Any discomfort and / or urgency when you feel the need to pass water?
7. Is voiding done in “stages”?

Some “comforting” news: About 70% of men will suffer from these symptoms during the average lifetime. It is quite common in men over 45 years and sometimes even much earlier.

Prostate? What/why/where/how?

It is a gland within the male urogenital system with the function of secretion. It is controlled and developed by the male hormones, especially Testosterone. It secretes a substance that contributes to the formation of seminal fluid which enhances the mobility and fertility of spermatozoa. It also prevents this fluid from running into the bladder and redirects it towards the penis. Starting at (normally) the age 40, due to a decrease in Testosterone and a shift in the normal hormonal balance, (all part of the natural phenomenon associated with aging), the prostate becomes enlarged causing a narrowing of the urethra (tube which carries urine from the bladder to the outside). This is what causes difficult urination.

Prostate hypertrophy (enlargement) almost always starts off as a benign condition. It may unfortunately be a much more serious condition than anticipated. It is not something to ignore. The sooner you recognize and talk about this “natural” problem, the sooner you can get a proper diagnosis done by your doctor, hopefully eliminating the more serious forms and consequences of prostate hypertrophy. BPH presents itself in stages:
Early detection during phase I can still be treated and controlled without expensive medicine or surgery.
During phase II proper diagnosis is essential and prescription medicine might be prescribed.
Phase III is much more serious and ultimately might need surgical intervention by a specialist.

How do we avoid stage III?
Early detection and treatment is the answer.
Regular check-ups from the age of 40.
Never ignore the symptoms.
Accept the fact that it is a very real and common problem which can be diagnosed, treated and sometimes prevented.

Advice for a healthier prostate:
A healthy lifestyle, exercise, cutting back on alcohol & tobacco & coffee, low-fat high fibre diet, adequate intake of minerals and vitamins and yearly examinations all form a good base.
The Natural Remedies department at Uvongo Pharmacy strongly suggests the intake of a natural substance called Saw Palmetto, a herbal extract derived from the Serenoa repens plant. This herb, taken regularly can relieve the symptoms and halt the progress of prostate conditions during phase I. This in itself can prevent or delay treatment with harsh chemicals and/or surgical intervention.

Still scared or shy or ignorant? Then you did not read this with complete honesty and it is suggested that you read it again or phone us at 0393150040 to discuss your health and your safety.