The most common problem afflicting men over the age of 50 is prostate enlargement.

Of prime importance is the symptoms of prostate problems are understood, and a potent strategy can be formulated to combat prostate problems.

Due to the location of the prostate, its growth squeezes the urinary tract. Men with enlarged prostates tend to suffer incontinence.

Incontinence varies from frequent urination to the inability to urinate to a weak stream or a small amount of blood in the urine. While this condition is uncomfortable, there are many methods available to reduce the problem and enhance function of the narrowed urethra.

Enlargement of the prostate is a natural occurrence, but it needs to be closely monitored. Some people experience these symptoms but are not bothered enough by them to need medication or surgery.

You may ask yourself what is the top treatment for prostate cancer?

Of prime importance is that if the symptoms do become bothersome or worse, medications such as Flomax have been developed in recent years that help to shrink the prostate. They allow urine to pass more smoothly through the urethra.

The severity of the symptoms of an enlarged prostate can fluctuate, and it is important to have regular check-ups.

If you have frequent urinary tract infections, bladder stones, blood in your urine or acute urinary retention, you need treatment. Waiting too long to have mild symptoms checked can result in much more serious methods of intervention.

Unfortunately, lack of action or increasing severity of enlargement can require more than medication. Invasive procedures are available, and they are mainly conducted through the urethra.

These procedures destroy excess tissue or widen existing tissue to allow smoother passage of urine.

Alot of the best treatments in the early stages are non-invasive. Treatments like prostate cancer radiation treatment are, however, not very pleasant. Mull over the options available to you after consulting your doctor, then go with the most dependable treatment for your situation.

Electromagnetically-generated heat, microwave thermotherapy or photo-selective vaporization of the prostate are all performed through the urethra and destroy a select amount of tissue.

Photo-selective vaporization involves incisions in the bladder. These procedures alleviate discomfort and maximize performance. There is usually only a temporary period of sexual dysfunction afterwards.

The above procedures may still not be enough to alleviate an enlarged prostate, especially if the condition has escalated into prostate cancer.

There is a surgical procedure known as TURP (transurethral resection of the prostate), where actual pieces of the prostate are removed. This is the most radical of the procedures available before radical prostatectomy, where the prostate is actually removed.

TURP and prostate removal can severely impact sexual function and ejaculation. Further surgical procedures can be performed to fix any sexual dysfunction.

The key in preventing prostate problems is understanding that it does continue to grow in late adulthood, and that there can be symptoms you will need to recognize if it becomes enlarged.

Prudent doctor visits can help prevent surgery and can even stop cancer before it spreads. Men over 40 should consult their doctor’s and enquire about yearly prostate checkups.

Generally, manufacturers of herbal remedies and dietary supplements do not need FDA approval to sell their products. Just like a drug, herbs and supplements can affect the body’s chemistry, and therefore have the potential to produce side effects that may be harmful. There have been a number of reported cases of serious and even lethal side effects from herbal products. Patients should always check with their doctors before using any herbal remedies or dietary supplements.

Yohimbe.

Yohimbe, which is similar to yohimbine, is derived from the bark of a West African tree. Side effects include nausea, insomnia, nervousness, and dizziness. Large doses of yohimbe can increase blood pressure and heart rate and may cause kidney failure.

Gamma-Butyrolactone (GBL). GBL is found in products marketed for improving sexual function (Verve, Jolt). This substance can convert to a chemical that can cause toxic and life-threatening effects, including seizures and even coma.

Gingko.

Although the risks for gingko appear to be low, there is an increased risk for bleeding at high doses and interaction with vitamin E, anti-clotting medications, aspirin, or other NSAIDs. Large doses have also been known to cause convulsion. Commercial gingko preparations have also been reported to contain colchicine, a substance that can be harmful in people with kidney or liver problems.

L- arginine (also called arginine).

Arginine may cause gastrointestinal problems. It can also lower blood pressure and change levels of certain chemicals and electrolytes in the body. It may increase the risk for bleeding. Some people have an allergic reaction to it, which in same cases may be severe. It may worsen asthma.

DHEA.

DHEA is a supplement related to certain male and female hormones. Studies show inconclusive results in its treatment for erectile dysfunction. DHEA may interact dangerously with other medications.

Aphrodisiacs.

Aphrodisiacs are substances that are supposed to increase sexual drive, performance, or desire. Some examples include the following:

Viramax is a well-marketed product that contains yohimbine and three herbal aphrodisiacs: catuaba, muira puama, and maca. It has not been proven to be either effective or safe, and interactions with medications are unknown.

Spanish fly, or cantharides, which is made from dried beetles, is the most widely-touted aphrodisiac but can be particularly harmful. It irritates the urinary and genital tract and can cause infection, scarring, and burning of the mouth and throat. In some cases, it can be life threatening. No one should try any aphrodisiac without consulting a doctor.

Other Alternative Products Marketed for Men Sexual Health.

Vinarol is an over-the-counter supplement that was recalled after reports surfaced that it contained the same ingredients found in Viagra. Herbal supplements sold as Viagro and Vaegra have no association with Viagra.

For the tips about immune system boosters, please visit this Men Sexual Health Site