About Us | Privacy | Site Map
May 23, 2013
Font Size
A
A
A
...
5
...

Enlarged Prostate (cont.)

Medical Author:
Medical Editor:

Exams and Tests

  • A physical exam is required to see if other medical problems may be causing your symptoms. The doctor will conduct a digital rectal exam to examine the prostate gland. He or she can feel the prostate by inserting a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum. This procedure allows your doctor to estimate the size and condition of the prostate. Most importantly, it allows the doctor to feel for lumps or hard areas that could indicate the presence of prostate cancer.


  • Your doctor may check your urine (urinalysis) for blood or signs of infection. Your blood may be tested for kidney problems or sent for a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level -- a screening test for prostate cancer.


  • Some men are referred to a specialist (urologist) for further tests. Urologists specialize in diseases of the male and female urinary tracts and of the male genital tract. Before you are treated for benign prostate enlargement, it is important to rule out other possible causes of an enlarged prostate, such as cancer.

Must Read Articles Related to Enlarged Prostate

Prostate Cancer
Prostate Cancer Age, race, family history, infection with STDs, high-fat diet, and chemical exposure are risk factors for prostate cancer. Prostate cancer often has no symptoms...learn more >>

Viewer Comments & Reviews

Enlarged Prostate - Symptoms

The eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:

What were the symptoms you experienced with an enlarged prostate?

Women's Health

Find out what women really need.

Please acknowledge your agreement




Read What Your Physician is Reading on Medscape

Prostate Hyperplasia, Benign »

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that may restrict the flow of urine from the bladder.

Read More on Medscape Reference »


Find Your Best Self: Discover new ways to live an inspiring life through beauty, diet, and fitness ideas.

Medical Dictionary


Use Pill Finder Find it Now

Pill Identifier on RxList

  • quick, easy,
    pill identification

Find a Local Pharmacy

  • including 24 hour, pharmacies