As men age, prostate health often becomes a primary health concern. Visit a When to See a Prostate Cancer Doctor to test for cancer if you have urological changes, a family medical history, or concerning screening results. Knowing what signs merit medical consultation leads to earlier detection and treatment of prostate issues. Here is when to seek evaluation from a prostate cancer doctor:
Trouble Urinating
Changes in frequency, flow strength, dribbling, difficulty starting or stopping the stream, and emptying the bladder may indicate prostate enlargement or cancer growth affecting the urinary tract. Frequent bathroom visits often necessitate an assessment. Doctors often recommend testing and then refer you to a urology expert for medication, hormone therapy, radiation, or surgery options.
Blood or Semen Changes
Blood in your urine can signal prostate cancer that has spread outside the prostate. Discoloration in semen or a rapid reduction in volume during ejaculation may suggest compromised reproductive capabilities from developing tumors. Tell doctors about delayed symptoms that could identify the need to see a prostate cancer doctor. Removing the prostate can prevent blood invasion over time.
Pelvic Discomfort
Pain could indicate prostate enlargement affecting nerves, infection, or cancer radiation. See a specialist if you have discomfort in your back, ribs, hips, thighs, or above the pubic bone. Doctors may recommend pelvic MRIs for cancer detection through imaging. MRI-guided biopsy identifies tumors for laser treatment. If needed, cystoscopies or rectal exams check colorectal health so patients receive the necessary care.
Urinary Tract Infections
Recurrent UTIs may result when urine stagnates in the enlarged prostate, allowing bacteria to pool. Instead of self-treating, report infections to your general physician. Prescribed antibiotics mask UTIs’ prostate connection, causing oversight as the disease progresses. Prostate doctors can identify enlarged glands backing up the urinary tract flow. Surgery usually helps alleviate pressure and prevents infection.
PSA Levels and Biopsy
Blood tests measuring prostate-specific antigens (PSA) detect factors needing review. PSA levels beyond age norms suggest cancer and often require a biopsy for testing. If results show changes in PSA, you may need further testing.
Urology centers perform MRI fusion biopsies, combining MRI scans with ultrasound to locate tumors. Biopsy analysis guides treatment. Retesting after screening could indicate health changes. A biopsy confirms cancer diagnosis or dismisses PSA findings as false.
Abnormal Digital Rectal Exam
Your doctor may perform a digital rectal exam (DRE) to check the prostate for changes. Results guide the interpretation of size and texture variations. Getting a DRE alongside other screenings provides comparison data.
Cancer can cause gland growth, showing enlargement in prostate zones, and imaging reveals potential tumor regions. A doctor may use biopsy results from an ultrasound to confirm diagnoses. Some tests identify genes affecting prostate cells and can show changes before tissue alters. Early detection and diagnosis enable surgical precision.
Consult a Prostate Cancer Doctor Today
A combination of these symptoms often indicates prostrate complications and an appointment with a specialist should be scheduled. Their expertise determines diagnostic and treatment steps for potential disease. Discuss the benefits of early testing, including ancestry review, screening timing, and how health history guides care, with your doctor. Schedule a visit with your prostate doctor today. See More
