The prostate gland is an essential part of a male's reproductive system. It secretes fluids that aid in the transportation and activation of sperm. The prostate gland is located just in front of the rectum, below the bladder and surrounding the urethra. When there is prostate problem, it is usually very uncomfortable and inconvenient for the patient as his urinary system is directly affected.

The common prostate health problems are prostate infection, enlarged prostate and prostate cancer.

Prostate infection, also known as prostatitis, is the most common prostate-related problem in men younger than 55 years old. Infections of the prostate gland are classified into four types - acute bacterial prostatitis, chronic bacterial prostatitis, chronic abacterial prostatitis and prosttodynia.

Acute bacterial prostatitis is the least common of all types of prostate infection. It is caused by bacteria found in the large intestines or urinary tract. Patients may experience fever, chills, body aches, back pains and urination problems. This condition is treated by using antibiotics or non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to relieve the swelling.

Chronic bacterial prostatitis is a condition associated with a particular defect in the gland and the persistence presence of bacteria in the urinary tract. It can be caused by trauma to the urinary tract or by infections originating from other parts of the body. A patient may experience testicular pain, lower back pains and urination problems. Although it is uncommon, it can be treated by removal of the prostate defect followed by the use antibiotics and NSAIDs to treat the inflammation.

Non-bacterial prostatitis accounts for approximately 90% of all prostatitis cases; however, researchers have not yet to establish the causes of these conditions. Some researchers believe that chronic non-bacterial prostatitis occur because of unknown infectious agents while other believe that intensive exercise and heavy lifting can cause these infections.

Maintaining a Healthy Prostate

To prevent prostate diseases, a proper diet is important. These are some of the things you can do to keep your prostate healthy.

1. Drink sufficient water. Proper hydration is necessary for general health and it will also keep the urinary track clean.

2. Some studies suggest that a few ejaculations per week will help to prevent prostate cancer.

3. Eat red meat in moderation. It has been shown that consuming more than four meals of beef a week will increase the risk of prostate diseases and cancer.

4. Maintain a proper diet with cereals, vegetable and fruits to ensure sufficient intake of nutrients necessary for prostate health.

The most important measure to take to ensure a healthy prostate is to go for regular prostate health screening. If you are forty years old and above, you should go for prostate examination at least once a year.