Consultant urologist Mukti Kant Senapati advises people to take a lot of water. Picture by Manik Bose

Most of the sex-enhancing pills, freely available over the counter, have dangerous and prolonged side effects like blockade of kidneys and may even aggravate heart diseases, glaucoma among others, warns Mukti Kant Senapati, consultant urologist.

Talking to Rudra Biswas, Senapati points out that instead of relying on anti-impotence drugs, people should consult a doctor compulsorily with his or her spouse. At least 70 per cent of the problems can be solved, Senapati stressed.

What is prostrate and what are its problems?

The prostrate is part of a man’s sex organs. It’s about the size of a walnut and surrounds the tube called the urethra, located just below the bladder. The urethra has two jobs: to carry urine from the bladder and also to carry semen. For men over 50, the most common prostate problem is its enlargement.

What are the symptoms of prostrate enlargement?

In case you feel the urge to pass urine frequently, have difficulty while urinating or if bleeding occurs, feel loss of appetite or swelling of face or legs, then there is a cause for concern. If neglected, this may lead to kidney failure and even cancer of kidneys. Men over 50, should have their urine and blood tests at least once a year.

How common is prostrate enlargement in Jharkhand? Can younger people also have prostrate problems?

Only men over 45 or 50 years run the risk of prostrate enlargement. However, cancer of urinary bladder is widespread in the state. Preliminary studies link cancer of bladder to smoking, higher mineral deposits in drinking water, pollution caused by mining activities and presence of radioactive material in water.

Is there any natural way to avoid enlargement of prostrate and formation of stones within the body?

No natural remedy is available as the enlargement occurs with age. However, more intake of water could help in flushing out any calculus deposits and prevent formation of stones. Avoid excessive intake of milk products, tomatoes, spinach, leafy cabbage, cheese, chocolate and mutton.

Young couples often face reproductive problems. What is your advice to them?

In case young couples do not have children within two years of marriage, they should get in touch with a urologist. If investigated early, they can have children.