Basics of a Prostate Check

Getting a prostate check doesn't have to be a major undertaking but it's definitely something that shouldn't be put off. If you've been experiencing one or more of the common symptoms of a prostate problem, it's best to have a physical and have your prostate checked out by your primary care physician. Your doctor will pinpoint the cause of your symptoms which can range from diabetes to high blood pressure to cancer. A prostate check can help you determine what is causing your symptoms and as with all illnesses, the earlier the cause is identified the better it can be managed through medication, diet and lifestyle changes.

Prostate problems are often diagnosed through a number of small symptoms that occur over a period of time. If you have more than a couple of bouts with common symptoms of a prostate problem such as frequent urination, difficulty in urination or a feeling that you still need to "go" after emptying your bladder, hip or back pain that doesn't subside - all of these point to a problem with your prostate that should be examined by your primary care physician. A prostate check is the easiest way to rule out major causes and get to the root cause of your symptoms. Make a note of the symptoms you are experiencing and keep a journal for at least a week before your appointment. You need to discuss your concerns with your doctor who will pinpoint the cause of your prostate problem as quickly as possible so you can begin treatment. The only way to eliminate the symptoms of prostate problems is by addressing the cause.

Many people jokingly snap a pretend rubber glove and laughingly say, "It's time for your annual!" while wiggling a finger in the air. However, that actually is the primary way that prostate problems are diagnosed during a routine prostate check. It's called a digital rectal exam and you're not in the most glamorous position when a doctor performs it but it is one of the easiest ways to diagnose a swollen prostate. A doctor will insert a gloved and lubricated finger into the patient's anus and push forward to feel the prostate gland. The prostate is usually firm but not hard. Hard spots can easily be felt and many early cases of prostate cancer can be caught in this way.

Another way that prostate problems can be diagnosed is through a blood test. Your blood will be screened for antigens using a PSA test. PSA stands for "prostate-specific antigen" and men who have prostate problems, including prostate cancer will have a higher level of PSA in their blood. However, do not immediately jump to the conclusion that you have prostate cancer if your PSA levels come back elevated because even a simple infection of the prostate can raise PSA levels. Additional testing will need to be done to narrow down the cause of raised antigens in the blood.

Take the bull by the horns and do not put off getting a prostate check any longer. If you've been experiencing symptoms of a prostate problem, the sooner you can determine the cause, the better. It may be a simple swollen prostate that can be managed through dietary changes, with the addition of medications or saw palmetto. However, if you have a larger problem such as diabetes or prostate cancer, the earlier you catch the cause of the symptoms, the faster you can get your condition under control.