A prostate exam helps check the health of the prostate gland, and it is recommended for men over 50. The exam gives your doctor information about the size and texture of the prostate. Once you know what the exam involves, it becomes a standard part of your health care as you age. Here is more information about prostate exams for your urological well-being:
Maintaining Urological Health
Regular doctor visits support a proactive approach to your health. Your urologist can track changes over time and creates a baseline for prostate health. If you develop new symptoms, this baseline will help with comparison. This knowledge leads to a more informed assessment of your condition.
Detecting Cancer Early
For prostate health, screenings help identify potential issues early. A digital rectal exam (DRE) lets your doctor check for lumps or firmness. The prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test measures a protein made by the prostate, though levels may shift for different reasons. Both tests give a broad view of prostate health.
You and your doctor will typically go over the results together. An elevated PSA reading does not always indicate cancer. As PSA levels fluctuate due to many factors, doctors may choose to look at the complete picture. Depending on what is found, the next step may be monitoring or more testing. This approach helps clarify what is happening in your body.
Regular prostate exams are a fundamental part of maintaining overall health. They allow doctors to detect any potential issues early, and they can guide decisions about personalized care. While the process may be complex at times, understanding your results and working closely with your doctor makes sure that you have the best possible information to support your health.
Identifying Enlarged Prostate
Prostate exams are used to identify benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), which means an enlarged prostate. BPH is typical as men age and is not cancer. Although not dangerous, BPH can cause problems with urination. The enlarged prostate may push against the urethra. Signs of BPH may include:
- The need to urinate more often
- A weak or uneven stream
- An issue with urination
Doctors use the exam to check if the prostate is enlarged. This direct check gives useful information, and it enables doctors to make a decision. If BPH is found, your doctor will walk you through options for managing symptoms.
Ruling Out Conditions
In some cases, an exam is valuable for ruling out specific health concerns. Prostatitis causes pain and urinary issues because the prostate gland is inflamed. It is not the same as BPH or prostate cancer.
Since symptoms often overlap with other issues, an exam helps clarify the diagnosis. This makes it easier to choose the next steps for your care. This approach ensures that any underlying conditions are identified and addressed appropriately, helping you receive the most effective care.
Schedule Periodic Prostate Exams
Managing your health includes regular check-ups. Getting a prostate exam is a routine step for men over 50. The results add valuable details to your health record. Ask your doctor about your personal risks and review your screening schedule together. Reach out to your healthcare provider today to set up a prostate exam appointment.
