The prostate gland is part of the male reproductive system and produces a fluid that carries sperm during ejaculation. The prostate gland surrounds the tube that carries urine out of the body, called the urethra. There are many warning signs that indicate problems with the prostate.
Dribbling
Dribbling at the end of urination can be the result of an enlarged prostate, according to MayoClinic.com. The enlarged prostate will not allow full emptying of the urine or urine is left in the urethra once the urine stream has stopped. This urine will dribble out of the end of the penis once the man has stopped urinating.
Incomplete Emptying
According to the National Cancer Institute, men suffering from prostate problems will find it necessary to urinate often, especially at night. There will be incomplete emptying of the bladder during the day and they may experience discomfort in the lower abdomen and the perception that their bladder is full.
Incontinence
Men who suffer from prostatitis, a bacterial infection of the prostate gland that develops slowly and may become chronic, will also experience urinary difficulties. According to MedlinePlus, prostatitis can lead to incontinence. This is the medical terminology used to describe the inability to retain urine until the individual has reached bathroom facilities. This symptom will disappear when the prostatitis has been treated with antibiotics and the infection has subsided.
Pain
Pain with urination or with ejaculation, are both symptoms of problems associated with the prostate gland. According to MedlinePlus, men may also experience lower back pain or pain in the pelvic floor region. Pain during bowel movements or testicular pain not associated with sexual intercourse, are also symptoms that point to prostate problems.
Urine Stream
According to MayoClinic.com, men may experience difficulties starting urination or stopping urination. It is not uncommon for men to experience straining while urinating, a weak flow of urine or a urine flow that appears to start and stop on its own. The National Cancer Institute also points out that men may find blood in the urine stream when urinating.
Erection
The prostate gland produces seminal fluid, the fluid required to transport semen from the body during ejaculation. It also plays a role during erection. According to the National Cancer Institute, men may find it difficult to have an erection or that ejaculation is painful.
Retention
The National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse notes that some men may not know they have an obstruction until they suddenly find themselves unable to urinate. Called acute urinary retention, it can be triggered by taking over-the-counter decongestant drugs which prevent the bladder opening from relaxing and allowing urine to flow. If there is even a partial obstruction, retention can be the result. Urinary retention can also be brought on by alcohol, long periods of immobility or cold temperatures. Urinary retention can also be the result of a full obstruction from an enlarged prostate.
