Worried About Your PSA? Say Hello To Your Prostate Cheat Sheet
So, you’ve had your PSA levels tested, and they’re a little higher than you’d like—now what? First off, don't panic. PSA (prostate-specific antigen) is a protein produced by the prostate gland, and while elevated levels can sometimes indicate prostate issues, they’re not an automatic sign of cancer. In fact, high PSA levels can be caused by several common conditions. Let’s dive into some quick tips and tricks to help bring those numbers down and keep your prostate in check.
What’s a Normal PSA Level, Anyway?
Typically, PSA levels below 4 are considered normal, but that can vary depending on your age, race, and health history. It’s always best to have your PSA interpreted by a urologist who understands the full picture of your prostate health.
The 3 Big Causes of High PSA
Prostatitis: Inflammation of the prostate gland (often treatable with antibiotics).
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): A fancy term for a non-cancerous enlarged prostate.
Prostate Cancer: The one everyone’s concerned about—but keep in mind, high PSA doesn’t automatically mean cancer!
Ways to Lower PSA Levels—Fast!
Diet Tweaks: Start packing your plate with fruits, veggies, and antioxidants. Limit red meat and dairy, which have been linked to higher PSA levels.
Get Moving: Regular exercise helps reduce inflammation and keep your weight in check, which is great for PSA control.
Relax: Chronic stress can mess with your PSA levels. Try incorporating stress-reducing activities like yoga, meditation, or even a quick walk to clear your head.
Medications That Can Help
If an enlarged prostate (BPH) is the culprit behind your high PSA, your urologist might prescribe one of the following:
Alpha-Blockers: Meds like tamsulosin and alfuzosin help relax the muscles around your prostate and bladder, easing urinary symptoms and potentially lowering PSA.
5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitors: Drugs like finasteride can shrink the prostate, but watch out for long-term side effects.
If prostatitis is the cause, antibiotics can clear up the infection and bring your PSA back to normal.
Smart Lifestyle Choices
A few simple adjustments can make a world of difference:
Skip the Booze and Cigarettes: Both can contribute to inflammation and raise your PSA.
Abstain from Sex (Briefly): Avoid sex or masturbation for 48 hours before your PSA test—these activities can spike your PSA temporarily.
Avoid Heavy Riding: Hold off on riding bikes or lawnmowers for 48 hours before your test—pressure on the prostate can falsely elevate your numbers.
A Final Word on PSA Levels
Remember, high PSA doesn’t mean you have prostate cancer. Regular monitoring and lifestyle tweaks can go a long way in maintaining a healthy prostate. And when in doubt, always reach out to a urologist who can give you personalized advice based on your health history. At Access Urology, we’re here to help you keep your PSA levels—and your prostate health—under control.
Got questions or want to book a consultation? Give us a shout, and let’s get your prostate back on track!
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