High prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels can be concerning, but understanding your treatment options can empower you to make informed decisions about your health. Treatment for high PSA levels varies significantly based on the underlying cause, your age, overall health, and the severity of symptoms you may be experiencing.
In short, treatment for high PSA levels depends on the underlying cause and may range from active monitoring to medication or surgical intervention.
- Active surveillance – Regular monitoring without immediate treatment for low-risk cases.
- Medication therapy – Alpha blockers and 5-alpha reductase inhibitors to manage symptoms.
- Surgical procedures – Various minimally invasive and traditional surgical options are available.
Understanding High PSA Levels
PSA is a protein produced by both normal and malignant cells in the prostate gland. While elevated PSA levels may indicate prostate cancer, they can also result from benign conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or prostatitis.
According to the American Cancer Society, PSA levels typically increase with age. Men in their 40s generally have PSA levels below 2.5 ng/mL, while men over 70 may have normal levels of 4.5 to 5.5 ng/mL.
What Causes High PSA Levels?
Several factors can contribute to elevated PSA readings, including the following:
- Prostate enlargement (BPH) – The most common benign cause.
- Prostate infection (prostatitis) – Can temporarily elevate PSA levels.
- Prostate cancer – Malignant cells produce higher amounts of PSA.
- Recent medical procedures – Prostate biopsy or catheter insertion.
- Medications – Certain drugs can affect PSA levels.
How Are High PSA Levels Diagnosed?
Your healthcare provider will typically recommend additional testing to determine the cause of elevated PSA levels. The diagnostic process may include:
- Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): Your doctor physically examines the prostate gland to check for abnormalities in size, shape, or texture.
- PSA Velocity and Density: These measurements track how quickly PSA levels change over time and compare PSA levels to prostate size.
- Free PSA Test: This test measures the ratio of free PSA to total PSA, helping distinguish between benign and malignant conditions.
- Prostate MRI: Advanced imaging provides detailed pictures of the prostate gland and surrounding tissues.
- Prostate Biopsy: If other tests suggest cancer, tissue samples are collected for microscopic examination.
Treatment for High PSA Levels
The most common types of treatment for high PSA levels are:
Active Surveillance
For men with low-risk findings, active surveillance involves regular monitoring without immediate intervention. This approach includes:
- PSA testing every 3-6 months
- Annual DRE examinations
- Periodic prostate MRI scans
- Repeat biopsies as needed
The Mayo Clinic reports that active surveillance is appropriate for many men with low-grade prostate cancer, allowing them to avoid treatment side effects while maintaining quality of life.
Medication Therapy
Treatment for a swollen prostate often begins with medications that can effectively manage symptoms and reduce PSA levels.
Alpha Blockers
These medications relax the prostate and bladder neck muscles, improving urine flow. Common options include:
- Tamsulosin (Flomax)
- Alfuzosin (Uroxatral)
- Doxazosin (Cardura)
5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitors
These drugs shrink the prostate by blocking hormone conversion. Examples include:
- Finasteride (Proscar)
- Dutasteride (Avodart)
Minimally Invasive Procedures
When medications provide insufficient relief, several minimally invasive options are available for the treatment of enlargement of the prostate gland:
- Transurethral Microwave Thermotherapy (TUMT): Uses microwave energy to destroy excess prostate tissue.
- Transurethral Needle Ablation (TUNA): Employs radiofrequency energy to remove obstructive prostate tissue.
- Prostatic Urethral Lift (UroLift): Small implants hold enlarged prostate tissue away from the urethra.
Surgical Treatment Options
For severe symptoms or large prostates, surgical intervention may be necessary:
- Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP): The gold standard procedure removes prostate tissue through the urethra.
- Holmium Laser Enucleation (HoLEP): Laser energy removes enlarged prostate tissue with minimal bleeding.
- Simple Prostatectomy: Open surgical removal of the enlarged portion of the prostate for very large glands.
- Radical Prostatectomy: Complete prostate removal, typically reserved for prostate cancer cases.
What Factors Influence Treatment Choice?
Several considerations guide treatment selection:
- Age and Life Expectancy: Younger men may benefit from more aggressive treatment, while older patients might prefer conservative approaches.
- Symptom Severity: The degree of urinary symptoms significantly influences treatment urgency.
- Prostate Size: Larger prostates may require different treatment approaches than smaller glands.
- Overall Health: Medical comorbidities affect surgical candidacy and recovery.
- Personal Preferences: Patient values regarding treatment risks and benefits guide decision-making.
Lifestyle Modifications and Supportive Care
Regardless of primary treatment choice, lifestyle changes can improve outcomes:
- Dietary adjustments – Reduce caffeine and alcohol intake.
- Fluid management – Limit evening fluid consumption.
- Exercise – Regular physical activity supports prostate health.
- Stress reduction – Manage stress through relaxation techniques.
- Regular monitoring – Maintain scheduled follow-up appointments.
Treatment for High PSA Levels in Phoenix, AZ
High PSA levels require prompt evaluation and appropriate treatment of enlargement of the prostate gland. Do not let elevated PSA readings cause unnecessary anxiety when effective treatments for a swollen prostate are available.
At Ironwood Urology, our experienced urologists specialize in comprehensive prostate care, from initial evaluation through advanced treatment options. We utilize state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and offer the full spectrum of treatment modalities, including the latest minimally invasive procedures.
Schedule your consultation today to discuss your PSA results and explore personalized treatment options. Our team is committed to helping you achieve optimal prostate health while maintaining your quality of life.
Contact Ironwood Urology at (480) 961-2323 or request an appointment online to take the first step toward effective treatment for high PSA levels.
Sources
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/15282-elevated-psa-prostate-specific-antigen-level
