Low flow? Burning sensation? Frequent urination? When it comes to the prostate, a urologist can help.
JRMC Urologist Dr. Brent Williams specializes in treating urological diseases. Urology really means treating conditions associated with the kidney, bladder, urinary tract and prostate.
The prostate gland is a small structure about the size of a walnut that produces a large portion of the semen. It is located below the bladder and surrounds the urethra, the tube that transports urine from the bladder. As a man ages, his prostate gland can increase in size and this can sometimes impact urination.
“Prostate enlargement commonly occurs as men age, and sometimes can cause urinary symptoms in men as young as age 55,” shared Dr. Williams. “Prostate cancer is less likely to cause urinary symptoms, but in general is one of the more commonly diagnosed cancers in men. Thankfully, most prostate cancers aren’t extremely aggressive. Treating a prostate cancer is often curative.”
Prostate cancer is relatively common thus many prostate cancers don’t impact a man’s natural lifespan. However, prostate cancers are often slow growing and do not need treatment.
PSA blood tests, when used appropriately on the right patients, can support early detection of prostate cancer. The decision to perform PSA screening is made after a thorough discussion of the goals, benefits and possible risks of PSA testing.
“The country celebrates women’s health in October and men’s health in November. This month is a great time to man up for men’s health below the belt,” Dr. Williams said.
WHEN TO CALL THE DOCTOR
First, if you or a loved one has the following symptoms, contact a urologist.
- Frequent urination. Waking several times to urinate and frequency of urination during the day can be signs of prostate enlargement.
- Low flow. Prostate enlargement and prostate cancer can also cause a weak or interrupted stream.
- Blood in the urine or semen: Ask a urologist to evaluate.
- Pain. Pay attention to hip, pelvic or back pain because prostate cancer tends to spread to those areas.
Dr. Williams shared, “A family history of prostate cancer in a first-degree relative (brother or father), African-American race and obesity can increase a man’s risk of having prostate cancer.”
Concerned about prostate-related symptoms? Contact the JRMC Urology team to schedule direct: (701) 952-4878.
To learn more about men’s health, Dr. Williams, and urology, call (701) 952-4878.
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