Managing My Elevated PSA Level: Insights and Concerns at 56 Years Old

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concerns of managing an elevated PSA level at the age of 56, particularly in the context of potential prostate cancer. Participants explore the implications of PSA testing, the necessity and nature of prostate biopsies, and the options for anesthesia during such procedures.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant shares their PSA level of 4.9 and expresses concern about the possibility of prostate cancer, especially given their family history.
  • Another participant suggests that there may be treatment options available within the Veterans Affairs medical system and encourages further discussion with a VA doctor.
  • Several participants note the importance of understanding the implications of PSA testing and the potential for elevated levels to arise from various conditions, not just cancer.
  • Concerns are raised about the type of anesthesia used during prostate biopsies, with one participant questioning the availability of general anesthesia outside the VA system.
  • Some participants emphasize the need for thorough research and consideration before proceeding with a biopsy, suggesting that a PSA level above 8.0 would warrant such a decision.
  • There are mentions of personal experiences with sedation during medical procedures, highlighting varying levels of comfort and pain associated with different types of anesthesia.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a range of views regarding the management of elevated PSA levels and the necessity of biopsies, with no consensus reached on the best course of action or the adequacy of available medical options.

Contextual Notes

Participants acknowledge the complexity of anesthesia choices and the variability in medical practices, particularly regarding the use of sedation versus general anesthesia for prostate biopsies. There is also mention of differing practices in the UK regarding PSA screening.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for individuals facing similar concerns about elevated PSA levels, those considering prostate biopsies, or anyone interested in the implications of anesthesia choices in medical procedures.

nycmathguy
On June 7, 2021, I learned that my PSA level is 4.9, which is pretty high for my age (56). I got to go back in 6 weeks to get another blood test done for PSA. I am hoping that my PSA goes down or remains the same.

If my PSA level continues to rise, this is a bad situation. My father died from prostate cancer in April 2010. An elevated PSA is caused by different things (aging, infection in the prostate and cancer). I'm sure there are a few more reasons for an elevated PSA, but typically cancer is the culprit in most men.

The only way to know for sure is to experience a prostate biopsy. The VA Hospital does not put patients to sleep for this anal procedure. Patients are simply sedated (put in a twilight zone). I am not too thrill about the procedure if needed in the future. So, I am not rushing into a prostate biopsy.

I don't know if you know, but sedation is not the same as general anesthesia. I know the prostate biopsy procedure is not without pain but it is the only way to determine the reason why the prostate is growing. Do you know if I can get general anesthesia outside the VA Hospital? I am talking about a private urologist. I welcome all replies in this regard.

Thanks,
nycmathguy
 
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Sorry for the loss of your parent.

You may have treatment options even within the Veterans Affairs medical system. My current hometown includes many veterans but lacks several medical specialists. The VA transports patients to hospitals with better outcomes for certain procedures. Perhaps you could locate a facility that meets your criteria. I understand the VA is establishing closer ties to other Federal systems such as Medicare that include civilian practices; worth discussing with your VA doctor and patient advisor.
 
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Klystron said:
Sorry for the loss of your parent.

You may have treatment options even within the Veterans Affairs medical system. My current hometown includes many veterans but lacks several medical specialists. The VA transports patients to hospitals with better outcomes for certain procedures. Perhaps you could locate a facility that meets your criteria. I understand the VA is establishing closer ties to other Federal systems such as Medicare that include civilian practices; worth discussing with your VA doctor and patient advisor.

Thank you for the information. I will investigate further before running into a prostate biopsy situation. My PSA would need to be at least above 8.0 before I would even consider such a procedure. I'll keep you posted.
 
nycmathguy said:
Thank you for the information. I will investigate further before running into a prostate biopsy situation. My PSA would need to be at least above 8.0 before I would even consider such a procedure. I'll keep you posted.
Sorry about your father.

Some general information on PSA biopsy and conditions that can raise PSA

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/prostate-cancer/

NO screening in the UK as the test is considered inconclusive, mine was via a volunteer group.

It was only after having the test and reading into it that I discovered the issues with the test.

Hopefully you talk through all the options with your GP.

Good luck
 
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As an old guy I would also point out that although "twilight sleep" is not without issues (ask Michael Jackson...oops you can't), the more powerful anesthetics can cause a host of issues, particularly for ongoing mental acuity as we age. There are no perfect solutions, but take the time to do the research: this is not an emergency. Of course best of luck. I personally have been very impressed by most medical practitioners.
 
pinball1970 said:
Sorry about your father.

Some general information on PSA biopsy and conditions that can raise PSA

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/prostate-cancer/

NO screening in the UK as the test is considered inconclusive, mine was via a volunteer group.

It was only after having the test and reading into it that I discovered the issues with the test.

Hopefully you talk through all the options with your GP.

Good luck
Thank you for the link provided. I will keep you informed. Praying that it is not cancer.
 
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I think your own physicians are a better source then us. They do these frequently and are unlikely to suggest an anesthesia type that is inappropriate. They should be familiar with normal patient concerns; your question doesn't sound unique to me. Anesthesia is complex with more choices than the general public normally understands.

I know nothing about prostate biopsies. However, I did have arthroscopic knee surgery (partial meniscectomy) with deep sedation and felt nothing. Also a couple of colonoscopies with less sedation without discomfort.
 
DaveE said:
I think your own physicians are a better source then us.
This is the bottom line (ack! sorry about the unintentional pun).

With this good advice, the thread is closed.
 
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