The prostate is a small gland that encircles the neck of the bladder and the tube that carries urine from the bladder. Found only in men, the prostate adds fluid to sperm just before ejaculation. It s also responsible for a lot of discomfort. In about 60 percent of men over age 50, the prostate becomes enlarged sometimes as big as an orange and restricts the flow of urine. The condition is painless but can be frustrating to live with.
Prostate cancer is another major concern.
More than 30 percent of men over age 50 may already have it, but it s a very slow-growing form of cancer that won t cause immediate health problems for most of them. Still, doctors recommend a yearly rectal exam for all men over 40. The natural remedies in this chapter in conjunction with medical care and used with the approval of your doctor may help prevent a prostate problem or lessen its symptoms, according to some health professionals. You experience painful urination, coupled with lower back pain, fever and pelvic pain. You frequently feel the urge to urinate but can t get a stream started.