Prostachron®

Description

It is common for the prostate gland to begin to grow between the ages of 40 and 50. Often taking a slow, intermittent course, it eventually develops into the most common reason for disturbance of bladder emptying in men. This growth is caused by the cells of the prostate reproducing more rapidly, enlarging the cell tissue. As the prostate grows larger, it may begin to press on the urethra, which it encircles, hindering urine flow.

An unhealthy prostate can greatly affect quality of life. As a rule, prostate growth is associated with hormonal changes which occur during male menopause (andropause), when a drop in male sex hormones, particularly testosterone, occurs. As men age, the amount of the growth hormone and estrogens also slowly decreases.

High stress levels and certain lifestyle factors also contribute to sub-optimal prostate health and can begin to occur even in men younger than 40. Prostate concerns can lead to a number of problems such as difficulty urinating, delay in urination (hesitancy), a reduction in the force of the urine stream, longer terminal dribbling, and frequent passing of small amounts of urine at night.

The prostate (a word derived from the Greek word meaning “one who stands before”, “protector”, or “guardian”) is situated below the neck of the bladder, and encircles the urethra. It is a compound organ made up of 30 to 50 small glands. These glands produce a fluid that is secreted into the urethra at the time of ejaculation, accounting for two thirds of the volume of semen. The prostate also produces a special antigen called PSA, which has become recognized as a marker for abnormal prostate function.

The size of the prostate does not always determine how severe the resulting symptoms will be. Even a minor enlargement of the gland may result in severe symptoms. Prostate health tends to deteriorate slowly and progressively. A rectal exam performed by a physician can determine whether the prostate is a healthy size, and it is frequently recommended that men over the age of 45 get this exam on a regular basis.