Flomax PSA Tests
Possible problem with Flomax PSA Tests: The Prostate-Specific Antigen Test can show a misleading low reading if you are taking Flomax medicines.
If your doctor deems it necessary to screen you for prostate cancer, you will have to have a regular PSA Test done.
The PSA prostate test is a test that measures the level of prostate-specific antigen in the patient's blood. The process of this prostate test is quite simple – the doctor takes a sample of the patient's blood, and then the level of PSA in the blood is measured in a laboratory.
There is a fair bit of controversy surrounding this test, and this is because it is not yet actually known whether or not the test saves lives. More specifically, as of yet it is not entirely clear if the benefits of PSA screening actually outweigh the risks of follow-up diagnostic tests and cancer treatments.
It is very normal for men to have a rather low level of PSA in their blood, however it is important to realize that prostate cancer and other related health conditions tend to raise PSA levels, and so if your level is even remotely higher than usual, your doctor will want to run further tests.
Your PSA Test results may be low when using any kind of medication used for the treatment of:
- BPH (Benign Prostate Hyperplasy) (Flomax)
- Hormone blockage
- Hair restoration
- Prostatitis
Your PSA results may be high in case of:
- Prostatitis
- BPH (Benign Prostate Hyperplasy)
- Brachytherapy
- Ejaculation (having an orgasm) taking place within 48 hours previous to testing.
- Activities (e.g. bike riding) or medical procedures that may stimulate the prostate.
It is really important that you work together with your doctor here, as they will be able to better explain issues regarding this test with you, and let you know their opinion on whether you should take it or not.
Of course the final decision is basically entirely up to you, and so the best way that you can make the most informed and intelligent decision here is by making yourself as knowledgeable on the subject as possible.
In order to avoid misleading results from a PSA test, it is very important to speak with your doctor about what you can do or shouldn't do before being tested. Also make sure to inform your doctor of any medicines or drugs you are taking.
Conclusion: Flomax PSA Tests may show low level of PSA.
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Disclaimer: This website, ProstateProblemsAndCures.com, is intended for educational purposes only and is by no means a substitute for consultation or advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider.
©2007 Copyright ProstateProblemsAndCures.com File posted: 22 August 2007 | Filename: Flomax PSA Tests
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