According to the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse, the prostate is a gland of the male reproductive system that is responsible for the transport of urine from the bladder and transport of sperm during the ejaculation process. The prostate gland is approximately the size of a walnut and is located around the urethra, the tube through which urine is excreted from the body. As a man ages, the prostate may become enlarged or cancer may develop in the gland. There are many warning signs that may alert a person that he may be developing prostate issues.
Weak Urine Stream
If the prostate becomes enlarged, the gland will begin to squeeze or constrict the urethra. The constriction of the urethra may cause the normal urine stream to become weaker. According to the Mayo Clinic, individuals may also experience dribbling at the completion of urination and the inability to completely empty the bladder. If any of these symptoms become evident, a physician should be consulted immediately.
Difficult Urination
As the prostate becomes more enlarged, the urethra will become further constricted, which can make the urination process difficult. According to "The New York Times," individuals may experience difficulty beginning the urination process, straining while urinating, starting and stopping during the urination process or total inability to urinate. If any of the symptoms become evident, a physician should be consulted immediately.
Change in Urinary Habits
An enlarged prostate can drastically change a person's urinary habits. According to the Mayo Clinic, individuals with an enlarged prostate may experience an increase in frequency of urination and increased urgency to urinate. In addition, individuals may experience a condition called nocturia, which is an increased frequency of urinating through the night. If these symptoms arise, consult a physician immediately.
Infection
Individuals who suffer from an enlarged prostate may eventually develop infection. Due to the inability of the bladder to completely empty, the residual urine may lead to a urinary tract infection. According to the Mayo Clinic, individuals may experience blood in the urine, pain while urinating and even develop bladder and kidney stones. If any of these symptoms are experienced a physician should be consulted immediately.
