questions

What are the symptoms of an enlarged prostate?

Enlargement of the prostate can cause blockage symptoms with poor urinary flow and difficulty emptying.  It can also cause symptoms of urinary frequency and irritation. 

What are the side effects of having my prostate removed?

Total removal of the prostate for clinical cancer can cause symptoms of urinary leakage and erectile problems. 

What medications are available to delay prostatic surgery?

Medications can relax the prostate, decrease prostatic size or symptoms of urgency and frequency. Not all patients with urinary symptoms require medical treatment but if symptoms worsen with medication endoscopic surgery may be necessary. 

How reliable is the PSA test?

The PSA test is the most reliable test available to detect early prostate cancer, especially if used in combination with a free/total ratio, family history and a correlation with prostatic size with prostatic examination.   Just because the PSA is elevated does not mean that intervention is necessary.
 

What are the side effects of a TURP?

Trans urethral resection of the prostate is usually performed with patients with blockage symptoms.  It can often cause decreased ejaculation and occasionally erectile dysfunction. Sometimes the prostate may grow back and a further procedure may be necessary especially if the prostate is very large.  Mr Wells has been performing this operation for over 25 years, undertaking more than 4000 cases.  

How do I avoid getting Kidney Stones?

Kidney stones usually occur as a result of dehydration. It is very important to be well hydrated especially in hot weather.  A small percentage of people get kidney stones associated with gout or elevated levels of calcium.