The prostate is a gland that is a part of the male reproductive system. It is responsible for producing seminal fluid. A swollen or enlarged prostate can make it difficult for an individual to pass urine or release seminal fluid. The prostate is usually the size of a walnut that starts growing during puberty and its enlargement happens in all men throughout as they grow older from puberty to old age. An enlarged prostate becomes problematic as it causes trouble during urination. But does the swelling of the prostate give rise to erectile dysfunction? Keep reading to find out.
Prostate Enlargement
The abnormal growth of the prostate can be attributed to some DNA mutations, which cause the unusual development of the glandular cells of the prostate. The rapid mutations and cell division happening in the prostate lead to a sudden increase in the size of the prostate. Prostate cell division happens at a faster pace compared to normal cells. Abnormal growth of the prostate can disturb the peripheral organs in the reproductive system by taking up more space.
Factors Causing Abnormal Growth Of Prostate
Let us have a look at the factors that contribute to the unusual growth of the prostate gland in men:
Prostatitis
In this condition, the abnormal growth of the prostate causes inflammation in the pelvic region. It is caused because of some bacterial infection that produces intense pain and inflammation around the groin area. Those who have prostatitis may experience pain while urinating. Prostatitis is of two types – acute and chronic.
In the case of chronic prostatitis, the individual may experience mild to moderate intensity of pain, whereas, during acute prostatitis, the pain becomes unbearable and severe. It may so happen that an individual might not even realize that they are having prostatitis, as it might not cause an indication through pain or inflammation.
Prostate Cancer
It is a common type of cancer in older men. It might remain asymptomatic during its initial stages of development and slowly starts causing trouble when it is fully grown. The growth of the prostate happens when abnormal development in the prostate cells takes place. The rapid growth leads to tumor formation in the prostate, which is cancerous.
The tumor can be malignant or benign, the former develops and affects the peripheral organs of the reproductive system by spreading the cancerous infection, while the latter one does not usually cause any problems to the other organs. The malignant type of tumor is dangerous, as it disintegrates and can even metastasize to other parts of the body and produce more such tumors. Its presence can be indicated by conducting screening and other medical tests.
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
Prostate enlargement in this condition occurs because of several factors like aging, changings in the testicular cells, or hormonal imbalances. Individuals with this condition may develop difficulties urinating. It can also increase sexual difficulties. Its risk is quite high among older men. The abnormal growth of the prostate can increase discomfort in the pelvic region. This discomfort can affect the normal functioning of the organs which helps in passing urine and aids the process of ejaculation. Individuals with this condition may develop erectile dysfunction and ejaculatory problems.
Does a swollen prostate cause erectile dysfunction?
The growing size can affect the urinary as well as ejaculatory function, although the size of enlarged prostate might not directly cause erectile dysfunction, it can still impact the erection function by causing pain, inflammation, and discomfort in the pelvic region. Abnormal growth of the prostate can impact the erection function and cause premature ejaculation. Also, individuals who underwent prostrate surgery might have to suffer due to some damage to their sexual function, this damage can be temporary or permanent.
Individuals with erectile dysfunction can improve their sexual functioning with the help of ED medications. Medications like Fildena can help them in restoring their erectile function. These medications contain powerful stimulant that helps in reviving sexual function.
When is the right time to see your doctor?
You have to consult your doctor when you start to experience discomfort and pain around your pelvis. Sometimes, you might not feel any pain, but you may experience problems while urinating and also sexual problems like erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation. When any of these symptoms show up, especially if you are old enough, then you should immediately see your doctor, as issues of prostate enlargement are linked to old age.
Your doctor will conduct screening tests to see the actual cause of discomfort and pain in the pelvic region. Based on the reports, they will evaluate the reason for its enlargement, and further, suggest to you the appropriate action for the treatment.
