How is BPH Diagnosed?

Diagnosing benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in its earlier stages can lower the risk of complications. Your healthcare provider will review your health history and do a physical exam. Other tests may include:

• Urine tests. To check for infection.
• Digital rectal exam. A procedure where the healthcare provider puts a gloved finger into the rectum to feel the part of the prostate next to the rectum.
• Ultrasound (sonography). An imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the prostate and nearby organs on a computer screen.
• Cystoscopy. A thin flexible tube and viewing device (cystoscope) is put into the penis and through the urethra. It lets the healthcare provider look at the bladder and urinary tract for structure changes or blockages.
• Urine flow study. A test where the man urinates into a device that measures how quickly the urine is flowing. Reduced flow may suggest BPH.
• Post void residual. A test like an ultrasound that measures that amount of urine in the bladder after urination.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of BPH, talk to your doctor about next steps for diagnosis. Appointments can then be made at Atlantic General Urology for further evaluation and treatment, by calling 410-629-6277.