Prostate symptoms

This section of the module explores common prostate symptoms, diagnostic tests and underlying causes, including benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostatitis and prostate cancer.

The prostate is a walnut-sized gland located below the bladder and in front of the rectum. It is responsible for producing seminal fluid, which nourishes and transports sperm.

Common prostate conditions include BPH, a non-cancerous enlargement; prostatitis, which involves inflammation or infection; and prostate cancer, a malignant growth, often slow growing.

Community pharmacists should be vigilant for symptoms that may indicate prostate issues, such as increased frequency or urgency of urination, nocturia (waking at night to urinate), difficulty starting or stopping urination, a weak stream or dribbling, pain during urination or ejaculation, and blood in urine or semen. These symptoms can overlap across BPH, prostatitis and prostate cancer, making further investigation essential.