There are a large number of factors and diseases that may lead to back pain. But can a prostate cause back pain as well? Let’s familiarize ourselves with prostate determination and find out if back pain is an indicator of prostate-related problems.
What is Prostate
As known, the prostate is a gland of walnut size. The gland is an element of the male reproductive system and participates in the production of semen.
Function and location
The prostate can be found under the bladder and it covers the urethra.One of the most significant functions of this gland is the production of a fluid that forms semen at the same time with sperm cells from the testicles and fluids from other glands.
Common prostate-related issues
As a rule, some serious problems may occur with prostate wellness. Prostatitis, benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate), and prostate cancer are considered the most widespread issues related to the prostate.
Prostatitis
Prostatitis stands for inflammation of the prostate gland. Usually, prostatitis is morbid and unpleasant. Fortunately, prostatitis often passes. It is possible to face prostatitis at any age.
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
Benign prostatic hyperplasia is likewise known as an enlarged prostate. As the title implies, an enlarged prostate is when the gland has become bigger. Almost all men face benign prostatic hyperplasia as they get older. Luckily, an enlarged prostate doesn’t mean cancer. Likewise, benign prostatic hyperplasia doesn’t increase the risk of prostate cancer.
Prostate cancer
Prostate cancer is characterized by an out-of-control and malignant increase of cells in the prostate gland. The majority of men may not notice changes with early prostate cancer. Signs and symptoms of prostate cancer may occur later as cancer grows.
Prostatitis and Back Pain
Prostatitis may usually be followed by fever, shakes, lower back pain or pelvic pain, and discharge through the urethra. Since symptoms may be different in every individual, it is recommended to contact your doctor for getting a correct diagnosis.
Acute and chronic bacterial prostatitis
Acute bacterial prostatitis is regarded as a bacterial infection of the prostate. It is commonly accompanied by sudden and complicated symptoms. At the same time, chronic bacterial prostatitis is known as an ongoing or recurring bacterial infection. It is followed by less difficult symptoms.
Chronic pelvic pain syndrome
Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome is a condition that is accompanied by constant pain in the pelvic region. The pain may vary from person to person and it ranges in severity, type, and duration. For instance, pain may be mild or hard, dull or sharp, ongoing or discontinuous.
BPH and Back Pain
Benign prostatic hyperplasia or enlarged prostate is a condition in which the prostate gland is enlarged. Fortunately, benign prostatic hyperplasia isn’t cancerous. But, it may lead to bladder, urinary tract, or kidney issues. Moreover, an enlarged prostate may cause back pain and discomfort in the lower back.
Causes and symptoms of BPH
It is complicated to claim what may cause benign prostatic hyperplasia. However, one of the factors may be changes in the sex hormones of men that happen with aging.One may highlight urination, problems with starting to pee, and failure to fully empty the bladder as common symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia.
How BPH may lead to back pain
An enlarged prostate may cause back pain in a few ways. BPH may exert pressure on the nerves, cause discomfort in the lower back by inducing issues with bladder function, cause pain in the lower back because of the emergence of kidney issues, etc.
Prostate Cancer and Back Pain
In some cases, advanced prostate cancer may lead to chronic back pain. As a rule, this occurs in the later stages of cancer when it spreads to the bones in the spine.
Metastasis and back pain
Metastasis is regarded as the spread of cancer from one part of the body to another. Unfortunately, it may cause back pain as well. Once cancer cells metastasize to the bones of the spine, they can cause lots of symptoms, particularly, back pain.
Importance of early detection
It is significant to detect prostate cancer as early as possible since early diagnosis and treatment can considerably improve the chances of a positive outcome. Early detection is vital since it guarantees increased treatment options, better chances of cure, lower risk of complications, etc.
Other Causes of Back Pain
Not only prostate-related issues may lead to back pain. Let’s consider other reasons for pain and unpleasant feelings in the back.
Musculoskeletal issues
The back consists of bones, nerves, muscles, and ligaments. If some issues happen with these structures, this may result in pain and discomfort.
Disc-related problems
Disc-related problems are regarded as a widespread cause of back pain. When discs that are between the vertebrae of the spine are damaged, this may lead to pain and unpleasant feelings.
Nerve compression
Nerve compression may be the reason for back pain as well. Once the nerves of the spinal cord are compressed, this may result in pain and tingling in the back.
Kidney and bladder issues
The kidneys and bladder can be found in the lower back and pelvis. This implies that issues with these organs may lead to pain in the back with a high probability.
Prevention and Treatment
Undoubtedly, back pain is unpleasant. That’s why, let’s consider how it is possible to prevent and treat it easily.
Lifestyle changes
Sticking to a healthy lifestyle can contribute to prostate wellness and decrease the risk of developing prostate issues. Simple lifestyle changes may include: maintaining a healthy diet, exercising on a regular basis, quitting smoking and drinking alcohol, etc.
Treatment options
The treatment for prostate-related back pain will depend on the main reason for the pain. Some potential treatment options involve medications, surgeries, therapies, etc.
Antibiotics for prostatitis
One may treat prostatitis by taking antibiotics. Contact your doctor who will prescribe you the necessary antibiotics depending on the type of prostatitis and severity of the infection.
Medications and surgery for BPH
Alpha-blockers and 5-alpha reductase inhibitors are the most common medicines utilized to treat an enlarged prostate. Likewise, there are a few surgical options for the treatment of an enlarged prostate, for instance, transurethral resection of the prostate.
Treatment options for prostate cancer
Prostate cancer may be treated in several ways. Some of them are chemotherapy, hormone therapy, radiation therapy, etc.
Summary
Back pain may be caused by prostate-related issues, musculoskeletal problems, disc-related troubles, nerve compression, kidney and bladder diseases, etc. Luckily, back pain may be prevented and treated if you see your doctor in time. Also, don’t forget to follow your health to avoid back pain and other health issues.
FAQ
Yes, prostate issues, such as prostatitis, benign prostatic hyperplasia, and prostate cancer may result in back pain.
Prostate problems cause back pain by putting pressure on nerves, spreading cancer to the bones, exerting muscle tension, etc.
If you start to feel back pain or other symptoms that may be connected with prostate problems, it is recommended to contact your doctor as early as possible.
Yes, prostate cancer in the later stages may cause back pain.
