Understanding Prostate Health: A Comprehensive Guide by Dr. Sahaj Garg, Urologist
Prostate health is a critical aspect of men's health, especially as they age. Dr. Sahaj Garg, a renowned urologist with extensive experience in diagnosing and treating prostate conditions, sheds light on the importance of prostate health, common issues affecting the prostate, and the latest treatments available.
What is the Prostate?
The prostate is a small, walnut-sized gland located just below the bladder and in front of the rectum. It surrounds the urethra, the tube through which urine flows out of the body. The primary function of the prostate is to produce seminal fluid, which nourishes and transports sperm.
Why Prostate Health Matters
As men age, the prostate can undergo several changes. Some of these changes can lead to health issues such as:
• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): A non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate that can cause urinary symptoms.
• Prostatitis: Inflammation of the prostate, often caused by bacterial infection.
• Prostate Cancer: One of the most common cancers in men, especially over the age of 50.
Maintaining prostate health is essential to avoid complications such as urinary retention, recurrent urinary tract infections, and in severe cases, kidney damage.
Common Prostate Conditions Explained
1. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
BPH is very common in older men. It is not cancerous but can severely affect quality of life due to:
• Frequent urination, especially at night
• Difficulty starting urination
• Weak urine stream
• Feeling that the bladder is not completely empty
Treatment Options:
• Medications like alpha-blockers and 5-alpha reductase inhibitors
• Minimally invasive therapies (e.g., UroLift)
• Surgical options like Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP)
2. Prostatitis
This refers to the inflammation or infection of the prostate. It can be acute or chronic.
Symptoms include:
• Painful urination
• Pelvic or lower back pain
• Painful ejaculation
Treatment:
• Antibiotics
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Lifestyle changes and physical therapy
3. Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer often grows slowly and may not cause symptoms in the early stages. However, some types are aggressive.
Warning signs may include:
• Difficulty urinating• Blood in urine or semen
• Pain in hips, back, or chest
Diagnosis involves:
• Digital Rectal Exam (DRE)
• Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test
• Imaging and biopsy if needed
Treatment options:
• Active surveillance
• Radiation therapy
• Hormone therapy
• Surgery (e.g., Radical Prostatectomy)
• Advanced options like robotic-assisted surgery
Prevention and Lifestyle Tips
Prostate health can be supported through simple lifestyle changes:
• Healthy Diet: Include tomatoes, broccoli, green tea, and omega-3 fatty acids
• Regular Exercise: Helps maintain a healthy weight and reduce inflammation
• Routine Screening: PSA tests and DREs after age 50, or earlier if there’s a family history
• Stay Hydrated: Promotes urinary health
• Avoid Smoking and Limit Alcohol: Reduces overall cancer risk
When to See a Urologist?
Dr. Sahaj Garg recommends seeing a urologist if you experience:
• Persistent urinary problems
• Pain in the pelvic area
• Erectile dysfunction
• Blood in urine
• Family history of prostate issues
Early detection is key to effective treatment. With the advancement of technology, many treatments today are minimally invasive, offer quicker recovery, and better outcomes.
Advanced Treatments at Dr. Sahaj Garg’s Clinic
Dr. Sahaj Garg offers state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment facilities for prostate problems:
• Uroflowmetry
• TRUS (Transrectal Ultrasound)
• PSA testing and interpretation
• Robotic and Laser Surgeries
• Personalized treatment plans
With patient comfort and safety as the top priority, Dr. Garg ensures compassionate, evidence-based care.
Conclusion
Prostate health should never be ignored. Regular check-ups and early intervention can make a significant difference. Dr. Sahaj Garg combines clinical excellence with cutting-edge technology to provide the best prostate care in Pan India. If you're facing any prostate-related symptoms or want a preventive health check-up, don’t hesitate to reach out.
9 June, 2025 | Prostate
20 May, 2025 | Kidney Stone