Wednesday, December 28, 2011

What You Should Know About Prostate Gland Examinations

By Peter Yang


The Prostate Gland is important for men for two main reasons. The first is that the tubing inside helps to remove waste through urine. The second is that it is used to deliver semen during the act of sexual intercourse. If you are experiencing problems with either function then it is vial to either check it yourself or get your doctor to check it.

Problems often start to occur as men reach their forties and so this is often the time to start examining your prostate yourself. It is also around this time that you should arrange an appointment with your doctor. While this is not necessarily a time to panic, this is often the time when you should be aware of any potential symptoms.

The reason for this is that if any symptoms are left undetected then problems can arise. Due to the nature of its function this could potentially mean incontinence or impotence. In some cases it can also lead to prostate cancer. Therefore early detection and vigilance are important. While it is not an easy thing to discuss it is something that should be dealt with as soon as possible.

When first performing an exam on yourself you should know what you are looking for. The gland is located behind the wall of the rectum and is quite small, roughly equivalent to a squash ball or slightly smaller. In order to examine it you will need the right surgical gloves and appropriate lubrication.

Once you have put on the gloves and applied the lubrication you then insert your finger into your rectum. The important thing to look for is the firmness of the gland. It should feel soft to the touch. If it feels hard then it is recommended you go to your doctor.

Other symptoms of possible problems include a burning sensation while urinating or a weak stream. If you are over the age of 50 then it is recommended that you have regular checkups. This is especially important if you notice any symptoms like this as these are often early signs of potential problems.

Other things you should be aware of include a weak stream while urinating or your bladder never quite feeling empty. Others may feel a tingling or burning feeling while they are urinating. Finding it difficult to maintain an erection can also be a factor. If you see these signs then these should also be discussed with your doctor early on so that you can get the right treatment.

A lot of people find it difficult to discuss problems with their Prostate Gland and may find it awkward to examine themselves. Therefore it is often best to go to your doctor for an examination. They can then show you how to do it for yourself at a later date, so you can be confident that you know what you are looking for. If you are in your fifties or over then you should be getting regular prostate examinations from your doctor. If you have any worries about potential symptoms or want to know more about your own medical circumstances then you should discuss this with your doctor.




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