7 Ways to Check if You Have Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer one of the commonest cancers affecting men. It occurs due to the abnormal changes in the prostate gland situated just below the urinary bladder. Here are 7 ways to check if you have prostate cancer.

7. Urinary symptoms

Most men with prostate cancer experience difficulty in passing urine due to the pressure exerted by the enlarged prostate gland on the urethra. The common initial symptoms of this condition include increased frequency of urination, difficulty in starting and stopping the urine stream, and an interrupted or weak urine stream. [1]

6. Urinary retention

As prostate cancer progresses, the gland enlarges in size considerably thus blocking the flow of urine through the urethra. It may result in urinary retention as well as involuntary urination. Most patients need the passing of a catheter through the urethral opening for the excretion of urine. Difficulty in urinating while standing and the need to sit while passing urine could be a sign of prostate cancer. [2]

5. PSA test

Men are advised to check for prostate cancer by undergoing a blood test to detect the levels of PSA. The increased levels of PSA or prostatic specific antigen in the blood could help to confirm the diagnosis of this disease. [3]

4. Digital rectal examination

A digital rectal examination that involves assessing the size of the prostate gland can help in early diagnosis of prostate cancer. During this test, your doctor would insert a finger through the anus to feel the enlarged prostate gland. [4]

3. Ultrasound examination

A transrectal ultrasound that involves inserting an ultrasound probe through the anus into the rectum can help to detect the enlargement of the prostate gland. The ultrasound machine would send out sound waves and measure the “echoes” bouncing back off the tissues. It would create an image showing the extent of prostate enlargement. [5]

2. Magnetic resonance imaging

You can check if you have prostate cancer by undergoing magnetic resonance imaging test. It can create a detailed set of images, which can help to detect the presence of abnormal growth in the prostate gland. [6]

1. Biopsy

A biopsy entails removing a sample of tissues from the prostate gland for examination under a microscope. The biopsy can be taken surgically or via needles inserted into the prostate. [7]

 Conclusion

If you experience difficulty in passing urine, it is advisable to undergo the tests for the diagnosis of prostate cancer. Being aware of the signs and diagnostic methods of prostate cancer can help in the detection of this condition before it spreads to other organs.