Millions of men suffer from prostate problems. In most cases, the problems are nothing to be concerned about and the symptoms are minor. However, in some cases the problems are serious and need to be treated immediately. Maintaining a healthy prostate and getting regular check-ups, is very important. Around the ages 50 or so, most men are asked to include a prostate test as a part of their routine check-up. A test could also be recommended, in case you face difficulty, in passing urine.
In case you have any medical problems, like hemorrhoids or anal fissures, you need to inform the doctor, before the exam. A prostate exam can be conducted in the following ways:
- Digital Rectal Exam (DRE)
- Trans-rectal Ultrasound (TRUS)
Generally, prostrate exams do not carry any risks. However, it is possible to have a hidden source of bleeding after the exam. If you find it hard to pass stool, you can try some stool-softeners for relief or you can alter your diet in the following way:
- Drink at least 8 - 10 glasses of water daily, as liquid keeps the stool soft.
- Eat a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables, to increase your vitamin and nutrient intake.
- Consume food that is rich in fiber (oatmeal and other whole-grains, nuts and seeds)
- Exercise regularly as it would help the food travel through the intestines, faster.
- Avoid caffeine, alcohol and unhealthy food
In case you are suffering from hemorrhoids after the exam, you can try the following treatments -
- A warm sitz bath: Fill up your bathtub with just enough warm water to cover the area that is infected. Alternately, you can use a small tub to cover the hemorrhoids.
- Cold packs: You can use a cold pack to shrink the tissue that surrounds the anus.
- Witch hazel compress: A lukewarm compress, prepared with witch hazel extracts can also give you relief, if applied to the hemorrhoid at least twice a day. Witch hazel cream or ointment can help treat the itching in hemorrhoids.
- Creams and pads: There are many creams and pads available at the pharmacies that help in providing relief from hemorrhoids. However, these remedies do not get rid of the hemorrhoid.
- Surgery: In case of an internal, prolapsed hemorrhoid, over the counter medication may not work. The hemorrhoid will need to be worked upon, surgically. Fortunately, there are many surgical options available, like - rubber band ligation, laser removal, electric cutting and hemorrhoidectomy.
Submitted by M T on March 8, 2010 at 11:44