The prostate is a small gland with a significant impact on men’s health, especially as they age. While prostate conditions are common, many men delay seeking care because they assume urinary or pelvic symptoms are simply a normal part of getting older.
Early evaluation by a urologist can make a significant difference in treatment options, long-term outcomes, and overall quality of life.
Even mild symptoms can signal the early stages of prostate enlargement, inflammation, or, in rare cases, cancer. Seeking timely evaluation helps ensure problems are identified before they become more serious.
John Watson, MD, a board-certified urologist, Section Chief of Urology, Medical Staff Leadership at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton, and an RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group provider, says “the biggest mistake men make is waiting too long. Symptoms like slow urination or waking up multiple times at night might seem harmless, but they’re often the first signs that the prostate is under stress. The earlier we evaluate it, the easier it is to treat.”
The most common prostate-related condition is benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or enlargement of the prostate. BPH is not cancer, but it can significantly disrupt daily life. Symptoms may include:
- Difficulty starting urination
- Weak or interrupted urine stream
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Feeling like the bladder doesn’t fully empty
- Sudden urgency to urinate
- Dribbling after urination
Men, at any age, experiencing any of these symptoms should make an appointment with a urologist. While these issues may be caused by BPH, they can also indicate prostatitis (inflammation or infection) or, less commonly, prostate cancer. Prostatitis, particularly common in younger and middle-aged men, can cause burning with urination, pelvic discomfort, difficulty sitting, or pain that radiates to the back or groin. These symptoms typically do not resolve on their own and often require targeted treatment.
“Many men tough it out or hope the symptoms will go away, but that can lead to complications. Persistent pelvic pain, urinary changes, or blood in the urine should always be checked by a doctor. These may not be emergencies, but they are absolutely red flags,” explains Vitaly Zholudev, MD, an RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group provider, a urologist specializing in men’s health.
Warning signs include:
- Blood in the urine or semen
- Inability to urinate
- Severe pain in the lower abdomen
- Unexpected weight loss
- New erectile dysfunction
- Recurrent urinary tract infections
These symptoms require prompt evaluation, as they can indicate a more advanced issue.
The good news is that urology has evolved significantly, and most prostate problems can be managed with medications, lifestyle adjustments, or minimally invasive procedures that offer quick recovery and long-term relief.
For men who notice even slight changes in urinary or pelvic function, the safest step is to consult a urologist. Prompt action not only protects prostate health but also supports overall well-being as men age.
Both Dr. Watson and Dr. Zholudev, affiliated with Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton, an RWJBarnabas Health facility, see patients at 1 Sheffield Drive, Suite 202A, Columbus, NJ 08022.
To schedule an appointment or for more information, please call 609-740-0030.