Ask Dr Lee Fang Jann: Erectile dysfunction

What is Prostatitis? Prostatitis is the swelling and inflammation of the prostate gland. Symptoms of Prostatitis? Prostatitis can cause painful or difficult urination. Other symptoms include pain in: The groin The lower part of the abdomen The perineum (the area between the scrotum and anus) The penis The scrotum Who is at Risk of Prostatitis? Prostatitis tends to affect younger men aged 50 or younger. This is in comparison to other prostate conditions like enlarged prostate or prostate cancer which are more common in men older than 50. How to Treat Prostatitis?

Erectile dysfunction refers to the persistent inability to get and keep an erection firm enough for sex. Problems getting or keeping an erection can also be a sign of an underlying health condition that needs treatment and a risk factor for heart disease. Erectile dysfunction symptoms might include persistent:Trouble getting an erectionTrouble keeping an erectionReduced sexual desireMale sexual arousal is a complex process that involves the brain, hormones, emotions, nerves, muscles and blood vessels [1]. Erectile dysfunction can result from a problem with any of these.

Most of the time it is usually due to the vagina being too dry and not well-lubricated enough. This is easily resolved by using vaginal lubricants or engaging in more foreplay prior to penile penetration. For some women, it could be due to sexual and performance anxiety leading to conscious tightening of the vaginal muscles. Patients may then want to try some relaxation techniques or breathing exercises in order to "relax" their tense vaginal muscles. Vaginal lacerations, although uncommon, can also be a cause of dyspareunia. In this case, there may be concurrent vaginal bleeding.

When you visit a Urologist for urinary or prostate-related issues, a comprehensive evaluation starts with a detailed history taking prior to any invasive or uncomfortable investigations. This will include questions about urinary symptoms and risk factors for prostate disease. Your doctor will then examine you, including doing a digital rectal examination (DRE). A gloved, lubricated finger will be inserted into the rectum to feel for any abnormalities in the consistency or shape of the prostate.

Localised prostate cancer can be classified into: Low-risk group Intermediate risk group High-risk group This is based on the stage and grade of cancer as well as the PSA level. Management of Low-Risk Group Active Surveillance Low-risk cancers are most commonly treated by active surveillance. This is a program of monitoring with: PSA MRI Biopsies This is to check that the cancer has not progressed to a higher risk group. Most men with low-risk prostate cancer never progress, and the 10-year survival for men with low-risk prostate cancer can be as high as 99. 7%.