Enlarged prostate
The prostate is a gland which is located between your bladder and urethra (the tube for passing urine). Between one to three in every 10 men in their early 70s may have symptoms of an enlarged prostate. The symptoms of which include:
* feeling that you have not completely emptied your bladder after urinating
* frequently waking up in the night to urinate
* urinating often during the day
* weak urine stream
An enlarged prostate can lead to urine infections. On rare occasions the passing of urine can be completely blocked. In some men the symptoms of an enlarged prostate go away on their own, while others may require medication.
Prostate cancer
Prostate cancer is more common with increasing age and is usually found in men over 50. The causes are unclear but there is an increased risk if a close relative such as your father or brother have had it. Prostate cancer can press on the urethra and block the flow of urine. As a result you may have difficulty urinating, have to urinate more often, experience pain on passing urine or have blood in the urine. However, if you are having these symptoms there may be other causes which are not due to cancer.
Whether or not you have treatment depends on many factors including your age, general health, stage of the cancer and side-effects of the treatment. Prostate cancer is often slow growing, so in some older men the best treatment may be "watchful waiting" (no treatment). In other men, surgery, radiotherapy or hormone therapy may be considered.
Illustration showing the different structures in the male pelvis
The different structures in the male pelvis
Testicular problems
All men should examine their testes regularly for anything unusual. If you notice any changes such as swelling, lumps or pain in your testes you should get advice from a doctor.
Testicular cancer
Cancer of the testicle rarely causes pain, but may cause the scrotum to swell and requires prompt treatment. The most common symptoms are a painless lump and swelling due to the collection of fluid in the scrotum (hydrocoele). It's most common in men aged between 20 to 45.
Torsion of the testicle
Severe pain and swelling of the testicle occurs if the spermatic cord is twisted (this is called torsion). The pain develops quickly, and you may also feel sick and vomit. Unless testicular torsion is treated within a few hours, there may be permanent damage. Treatment is usually by surgery. Torsion of the testicle usually occurs in men aged 15 to 30.
