Addressing Men’s Health: Urology Doctors Approach to Prostate Issues
The prostate gland is a tiny, rubbery accessory gland that is positioned deep inside the groin, between the base of the penis and the rectum and is made up of connective and glandular tissue. It is essential for reproduction because it supplies fluid that nourishes and protects sperm. There are a number of common prostate issues that may occur, with the three most common problems that affect men in Singapore being benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate gland), and prostate cancer. While any male can get prostate issues at any stage or age, the risk of developing BPH usually increases with age. Prostatitis, on the other hand, is typically seen in young and middle-aged men. According to SingHealth, prostate cancer is the 2nd most common cancer in Singapore, with many elderly patients being affected by small prostate cancers. So, if you are suffering from any of these conditions or suspect that you may have this illness, it is advisable to consult a good urologist in Singapore for proper care and treatment. But before you do that, it is wise to be aware of the approach urology consultants take in order to provide reliable care for your prostate issues – this article will do just that. Read on to learn more!
Urology Doctors Approach to Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
While BPH is not a cancerous condition, it can be concerning to patients as the prostate gland enlarges, causing symptoms and signs, such as urinary frequency (urge to urinate frequently), nocturia (urinating often at night), weak urine flow or stream, difficulty with urinating, and the inability to completely void urine.
The initial approach taken by urologists in Singapore is medical history-taking and performing a physical examination. This is essential to evaluate the patient and get a good understanding of their condition. Certain investigations, such as blood and urine tests as well as a digital rectal examination (DRE), might be required to come to a proper diagnosis. In addition, other investigations like a PSA test (prostate-specific antigen test), urinary flow test, 24-hour voiding diary, as well as a transrectal ultrasound and a prostate biopsy may also be recommended by your urology doctor.
Once the diagnosis has been confirmed, the urology consultant will start with medications such as Alpha-blockers, 5-alpha reductase inhibitors, or maybe even combination therapy. However, while medication is commonly used to manage BPH, some patients may require certain surgical procedures like TURP (transurethral resection of the prostate), TUIP, which is the transurethral incision of the prostate or laser therapy.
Urology Doctors Approach to Prostatitis
This painful condition arises when the gland is inflamed and swollen. Prostatitis can be classified into two categories: acute and chronic prostatitis. In acute prostatitis, the condition develops suddenly with severe symptoms requiring immediate medical attention as it can be life-threatening. Chronic prostatitis, on the other hand, usually presents with symptoms that come and go over several months; this is the most commonly occurring type of the two.
Both conditions may present with pain around the genitourinary region and with difficulty to urinate or pass stools. The difference lies in the severity of these symptoms. Additionally, general malaise, haematuria, backache and urinary retention may occur in acute prostatitis. With chronic prostatitis, the urologist in Singapore may find an enlarged or tender prostate on physical examination, and some may also have sexual problems like erectile dysfunction and others.
Diagnosis is typically carried out with the help of history-taking and examination that involves a rectal examination (DRE). For the treatment of acute prostatitis, the urology consultant will usually start the treatment with a two-to-four-week course of antibiotics, and the patient may be hospitalised if they are very ill or cannot urinate. In chronic prostatitis, the mainstay of treatment is to control symptoms. This is carried out by pain relievers, antibiotics, and laxatives (if needed).
Urology Doctors Approach to Prostate cancer
Prostate cancer occurs when the cells of the prostate gland begin to grow at an abnormally rapid rate. Most of the prostate cancers that develop in males are adenocarcinomas, with a small percentage of other types of prostate cancers, such as sarcomas, small cell carcinomas, transitional cell carcinomas, and neuroendocrine tumours.
While some cancers may grow fast, most prostate cancers develop slowly, and the majority of cancers may need minimal or no treatment. However, some are aggressive and require immediate intervention or treatment. When detected early, there is a good chance of successful recovery and a good prognosis. This is why it is essential to consult a reliable urologist in Singapore to check if you have any risk of developing prostate cancer.
Trouble with urination, haematuria (blood in urine), blood in semen, bone pain, and weak urine flow are some of the most common symptoms associated with this condition. If these signs persist, it is recommended that you consult a urology doctor right away. Diagnosis is typically carried out with the help of tests such as ultrasound, MRI, and prostate biopsy. Once the diagnosis has been confirmed, your urology consultant will determine the stage and extent of the cancer to plan the treatment needed. Following this, some urology doctors may also order further investigations to gain more information about the cancer. Active surveillance, surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and androgen deprivation therapy are some of the typically carried out treatment options. The treatment will depend on the type, stage, extent and condition of the patient.
Contact an Expert Urologist for Proper Prostate Treatment and Care
Are you seeking a well-experienced urologist for a prostate concern? Get in touch with an expert at Assure Urology & Robotic Centre – Dr Terence Lim. He has over twenty years of experience handling countless patients with prostate issues as well as other urological conditions and can make sure that you are assessed properly and the right treatment is provided. For more information on their treatments and services, do not hesitate to get in touch with their supportive and friendly team today!
