Prostate problems, which include benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostatitis, and prostate cancer, often share common urinary symptoms. It is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis if you experience any of the following key warning signs:

Changes in Urination Frequency and Urgency: A sudden, frequent need to urinate, especially at night (nocturia), or a strong, urgent feeling that is difficult to delay.
Weak or Interrupted Urine Stream: A noticeable decrease in the force of your urine flow, or a stream that starts and stops multiple times during urination.
Difficulty Starting or Stopping Urination: Hesitancy at the beginning of urination or dribbling at the end.
Pain or Discomfort: Painful urination (dysuria), burning sensation, or pain in the lower back, hips, pelvis, or during ejaculation.
Blood in Urine or Semen: The presence of blood (hematospermia or hematuria), which always warrants immediate medical evaluation.

Important Note: These symptoms are often caused by non-cancerous conditions like BPH. However, because early-stage prostate cancer may present with similar symptoms or no symptoms at all, it is essential not to self-diagnose. A doctor can perform tests, such as a PSA blood test and a digital rectal exam (DRE), to determine the cause.

For related information on prostate health habits, you can read about the research on Is ejaculating every day good for your prostate?

For a comprehensive external resource on prostate symptoms and conditions, visit the American Cancer Society’s guide to prostate cancer signs.