When it comes to prostate care, being proactive can make all the difference. Regardless of your age, knowing the right questions to ask your urologist can empower you to take control of your health.
Whether you are just starting to think about screening, or you are currently managing prostate concerns, being informed is crucial. Here, we have compiled a list of 10 important questions to bring up at your next appointment, so you can make confident decisions about your prostate health.
Everyone’s risk is different based on factors such as age, family history, race, and lifestyle. Knowing what your own personal risk is can help you and your doctor create a tailored monitoring and prevention plan. Early awareness often leads to better outcomes.
While general guidelines suggest starting around age 50 (or 45 for higher-risk individuals), some men may benefit from earlier or more frequent screening. Your doctor can walk you through the pros and cons of PSA testing and digital rectal exams (DREs), based on your risk profile and comfort level.
Difficulty urinating, increased urgency or frequency, or waking up at night to urinate could signal an enlarged prostate (BPH), infection, or even early signs of cancer. Catching and addressing these symptoms early can greatly improve quality of life and prevent complications.
The combination of a healthy diet that is rich in vegetables and low in red meat and dairy, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight may help reduce inflammation and improve overall prostate health. Your doctor may also suggest specific supplements or nutrients, but only if there is real evidence of benefit for you.
While early prostate cancer often has no symptoms, more advanced cases may cause blood in urine, pain, or bone aches. Being aware of subtle warning signs can empower you to seek medical advice earlier, when treatment tends to be more successful and less invasive.
Conditions like BPH or prostate cancer, as well as their treatments, can sometimes affect erections, ejaculation, and libido. Talking openly with your doctor allows you to explore solutions, including counselling or therapy, to preserve intimacy and confidence.
Prostate-specific antigen, or PSA, is a protein produced by the prostate, and elevated levels can suggest cancer, but also other conditions like infection or enlargement. Understanding trends over time, rather than just a single reading, is key to avoiding unnecessary worry or missing important warning signs.
Understanding the specific symptoms of BPH, such as urinary frequency, urgency, weak stream, or difficulty starting and stopping urination, helps you recognize the condition’s manifestations and seek appropriate treatment.
Learning about the potential causes or risk factors for BPH, such as aging, family history, or hormonal changes, can help you understand why you developed the condition. It could also help guide preventative measures.
Treatments range from simple lifestyle changes and medications to minimally invasive procedures and surgery. Your urologist can help weigh the benefits, risks, and impact on your daily life, including sexual health and long-term outcomes.
At Steinberg Urology, we offer advanced therapies and the latest diagnostic testing and evaluation for BPH and prostate cancer. Our team of dedicated professionals are here to help find the right treatment for you. Contact us for an appointment, and let us help you achieve optimal health and wellness in a professional setting.
6900 Boulevard Décarie, Suite M270
Montréal, QC H3X 2T8
1100 Rue du Lux, Bureau 520
Brossard, Quebec J4Y 0E2
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